AN art group in Carlisle is aiming to create a 'safe space' for local mums.

The group, named 'Art Group for Mums', was launched by Carlisle mum Ren Bell in August as a social space for local mothers to get creative. 

The group is now heading for its third session on Thursday, October 24 at Carlisle business Flutter & Fern. 

Ahead of this latest meeting, Ren was on hand to explain why she wanted to create the group. 

She said: "I set it up for a few different reasons. I actually really struggled and I still do struggle with post-natal depression two years down the line.

"I'm also a very anxious individual as well and found it incredibly difficult to make friends with other mums at playgroups.

"Because of these factors, leaving the house can be very difficult and challenging at times

"Flutter & Fern is run by two absolutely lovely people in Joanne and Harry with such a cozy venue, and particularly when you're anxious, it's good to come to a comfortable place with some really welcoming people.

"It's a very sociable and chilled-out place where we get together for a couple of hours, some bring projects they're working on, some don't, and we just do some painting, or drawing, or writing, or whatever people fancy.

"I provide things like paper, paints, and brushes, and Joanne and Harry also provide equipment as well to have a go with.

"We've all got different reasons for coming- some come that don't do any sort of art at home, but they draw some absolutely lovely images.

Ren is now hoping to make more connections with local mums and and share the safe space she has created with them.

She said: "Art is something I really enjoy and is a medium I use to also connect with people.

"I knew I wasn't the only one who felt this way either, so I decided to create an art group for mums so that people who may be anxious to talk to other people.

They may also be struggling with their projects or time, or maybe they just need two hours of peace where they can come together and talk, paint, write, or just have some time away.

"Parenting isn't easy for everyone, and sometimes people need that safe space to come to, and even talk about issues they may otherwise feel anxious about.

"Sometimes it's good to know you're not the only person going through these things.

"I take pride in the group being a safe space with no judgment at all."