Fran's Story

When Fran became pregnant, she found herself facing new challenges without the support she needed. Managing her mental health while learning how to be a new mum became overwhelming, and the pressures of daily life quickly began to take their toll.

Fran’s journey with YMCA Humber began when her perinatal mental health team suggested she move into YMCA’s parent and baby accommodation, where she could access support for both herself and her daughter. Fran moved into the service shortly after her daughter turned one.

The transition wasn’t easy. Moving into shared accommodation felt unfamiliar, and at times daunting. But with the support of YMCA Humber Housing Officers Katie and Charlotte, Fran found the change far more positive than she expected. Fran remarked: “With the support from Katie and Charlotte, it was a better transition than I thought it would be.”

While living with YMCA, Fran received holistic support tailored to her and her daughter’s needs. This included help with budgeting, meal planning, managing a home, and accessing counselling. These practical steps helped Fran feel more settled and gave her the stability she needed to focus on her wellbeing and her role as a mother.

Counselling played a vital role in Fran’s journey. During her sessions, Anna, one of YMCA Humber’s counsellors, helped Fran reframe her thoughts and build her self-confidence.

Fran explained: “Anna would listen to me, not turn it around, but help me understand that I am doing good and I am not being a bad mum, and to just be proud of myself and more confident in myself.”

With consistent guidance and encouragement, Fran began to feel more secure in herself and in her parenting. She described her journey as moving from “never feeling confident in myself” to “feeling like I can do anything.” Over time, this shift had a visible impact not just on Fran, but on her daughter too.

When describing her overall experience at YMCA Humber, Fran said “the whole transition has been absolutely amazing”, her daughter used to look at her with “sadness in her eyes”, but now she is “so much happier and enjoying life.”

Recently, Fran has moved into her own home and is excited to have a place she can truly call her own. With independence comes confidence, and Fran now feels equipped to face life’s challenges head-on. She explained: “I feel like I can do anything because I can do it. I am going to be proud of myself because before I wouldn’t have been able to be.”

Describing her gratitude for the help she has received from the team at YMCA Humber, Fran said: “Thank you so much, I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for everyone stepping in and helping me.”

Reflecting on Fran’s journey, Charlotte, Housing Officer at YMCA Humber, said: “I’m so proud of how far Fran has come. Having Fran and her daughter at YMCA has been a joy, and it’s been lovely to see them grow and thrive together in their own home. Every step we took with them, you could see the impact, and it’s been a privilege to be part of their journey.”