Since 1978, Nottingham Twins and Triplets Club has provided a lifeline for families with multiple children in Nottinghamshire. We chat to Anne Bishop, chair of NTTC, to find out more about what the charitable group is all about and why it plays such a vital role in the community...
Why was the charity set up?
NTTC was founded in 1978 by a local mum of twins, in order to meet up with other parents juggling more than one baby. At that time, the group was small and just met in people’s houses. In 2018, we had a fortieth birthday party with a bouncy castle, a visit from a local fire engine, races and games, stalls, coffee and a celebratory cake. Over 200 people from local families with twins and triplets attended; the youngest twins were only eight-weeks-old.
Why is it important to the community?
NTTC provides a local support hub for families with multiples. The number is on the increase, with one in every 65 pregnancies resulting in a multiple birth - this is a lot of people.
Having more than one child at once comes with its challenges, such as high-risk pregnancies, a burden of exhaustion with two or more babies to care for, logistical challenges of having more than one child, the struggle of supporting your children’s individual identities and the financial burden. We bring local families together in order to support each other through these challenges, while also sharing the joys and benefits of having two or more children born at the same time.
Having more than one child at once comes with its challenges, such as high-risk pregnancies, a burden of exhaustion with two or more babies to care for, and the logistical challenges of having more than one child
Is there a particular moment that encapsulates the spirit of the community group?
During the lockdown period we met on Zoom with families who were expecting multiples and hadn’t been able to physically meet up with local people in a similar situation. They were daunted by the practicalities of having more than one baby and it was such a joy to provide them with an empathetic local point of contact and with practical advice. The relief on their faces at having people to turn to reminded us why we needed to keep the Club going through those strange times.
When is your next social event?
We have our AGM in November, at which there will be free pizza and lots of chat, with the usual charity formalities, then there’s a Christmas soft play party in December!
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