“It is probably the best volunteer role you could ever do. The babies are great and the mothers really appreciate having someone there to look after their babies,” Ms Davies said.

About the ‘Mums and Bubs’ class

While mums are led through the exercise class by qualified physiotherapists, the volunteers offer a helping hand. They hold the babies, give cuddles, feed the babies and play with them, enabling the mums to focus on the class.

The exercise classes, open to all new mums across the ACT region, are so popular that sometimes the volunteers can have three babies vying for their attention at any one time.

“I absolutely adore babies and I don’t have any grandchildren of my own, so it is my opportunity to get my baby fix. I feel so happy after I’ve been here. I love talking to the mums and the baby cuddles are just wonderful,” Francine Davis, a Mums and Bubs group volunteer, said.

The “Mums and Bubs” exercise classes have been running for nine years, but after the first year the physiotherapists running the classes realised some mums needed support and the volunteers have played an integral role ever since.

“The volunteers make the service what it is. The mums come because of the available support from the volunteers. They are so good for their babies and the mothers,” said Jennifer Garrett, Calvary John James Hospital’s Senior Maternity Physiotherapist.

Canberra sees a lot of new mums often embark on motherhood without their own support networks close by. Seeing the volunteers interact with the babies also provides the mothers with a new way of looking at motherhood.

“We have a lot of mums with no family around them, so there’s that added care shown by the volunteers,” said Samantha Thirkettle, Calvary John James Hospital’s Volunteer Coordinator, Calvary John James Hospital.

The classes continue to grow in popularity, so anyone interested in volunteering is encouraged to talk to us.

“The fact that we get to help the mums do what they need is incredible. It leaves you with such a good feeling.”

“I would encourage everyone to volunteer. The rewards are far greater than any effort you put into it.” Ms Davis said.

The maternity services at Calvary John James Hospital will celebrate its 30-year anniversary on 21 September, 2024.

The ‘Mums and Bubs’ exercise classes are held every Tuesday and Thursday.