The Julaybib Project, an initiative aimed at supporting families with children who have additional needs, has become a crucial resource in Peterborough. Founded by Natalia Zaman and Amina Ahmed, both mothers of children with unique challenges, the project relies heavily on fundraising efforts and dedicated volunteers to sustain its operations.
Since its establishment, the Julaybib Project has focused on creating a safe space for individuals with additional needs, particularly within the South Asian community. This objective stems from the founders' firsthand experiences with stigma and isolation. For Zaman, her journey began when her daughter, Tahira, was born with Down's syndrome, an underactive thyroid, and a heart defect. Facing judgment not only from society but also from her own family, Zaman found solace in connecting with other parents who shared similar experiences.
The project hosts bi-weekly coffee mornings at the Gladstone Street Children's Centre, providing a welcoming environment where parents can come together to share their stories. These gatherings have proven to be invaluable in fostering a sense of community and moral support among families navigating similar challenges. Additionally, the project runs a WhatsApp support group that allows parents to connect and communicate between meetings.
In collaboration with Little Miracles, a children's charity, the Julaybib Project organizes playdates that give children with additional needs an opportunity to interact and enjoy activities together. Leni, a participant in the project since its inception two years ago, expressed her gratitude for the support she receives: "This group is really nice and helps me a lot." She further emphasized the importance of peer support, stating, "If this group was not set up, the families would feel even more isolated."
Carole Darlow, the parent care lead for Caring Together, spoke about the project's impact on families. "We have seen it flourish and grow and seen the confidence that it has given these parents in having a voice," she noted.
Zaman's personal story reflects the broader mission of the Julaybib Project. After being offered a termination following a 20-week scan during her third pregnancy, she chose to continue with the pregnancy. Despite initial fears about raising a child with special needs—especially without family support—Zaman found that her daughter's diagnosis brought her closer to her faith. "We were really excited for a girl after two boys, but to be told this made me very worried… but she brought me closer to my faith at so many levels," Zaman remarked.
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