Afloat e.V.
Support Groups Agreement
Afloat e.V. Support Groups are parent-to-parent, peer-led support groups with the goal of providing a safe, caring, and non-judgmental space to share about their experiences and challenges within the perinatal journey. With this in mind, we ask each person who attends Afloat e.V. support groups to honour the following guidelines:
Confidentiality - do not share any identifying information about anyone in the group with anyone outside of the group. This makes it safe for all of us to share openly.
We are not here to judge - we do not make judgmental statements or direct unsolicited advice to other group members.
No captive audiences - feel free to use the bathroom, feed, or change your child or move about with your baby.
No interrupting - it is important to give each of us room to express our feelings, including crying or even being silent. Let the facilitator lead the way in giving input.
Resist the urge to fix others - we are here to concentrate on ourselves.
Come as you are - in our experience, the more you share, the more the magic of support happens.
Babies-in-arms are welcome - and we all understand that babies cry!
Cell phones - please turn them to off or vibrate during the group.
This is your group - we welcome your input and ideas for enhancing the group!
Disclaimer: In our groups, Afloat e.V. facilitators serve as volunteer peer supporters and do not provide clinical mental health services, including diagnosis or treatment. Afloat e.V. is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care provided by a doctor, psychotherapist, or psychiatrist. Afloat e.V. cannot be held responsible for any consequences, content, or topics discussed during the support group sessions.
By attending Afloat e.V. support groups, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agreed to follow the above guidelines. You acknowledge that participation is voluntary and that Afloat e.V. does not provide clinical or medical care.