Women's role in informal support systems: supporting families and creating communities in parent and baby groups in Scotland

This article presents findings from two case studies examining the experiences
of participants and volunteers in parent/carer and baby groups (playgroups) in
Scotland. Through a detailed case study analysis – using participatory
observation and a series of semi-structured interviews – this research finds
that playgroups: 1) support the development of social capital through long-term
connections and sense of belonging and wellbeing; 2) enhance community
voluntarism and reciprocity, through capacity building; and 3) develop the skills
and confidence of their members related to child development through
knowledge exchange and storytelling. It is further contended that despite
playgroups importance to the social fabric and contribution to other positive
social outcomes, these groups, and the women that run them, have been
marginalised as researchers focus attention on more formal early years’
education and child development. This research highlights an important gap in
knowledge and focus from social scientists on informal settings and women’s
invisible labour, which take place every day and in every community in Scotland.
The research aims to inform policy and practice on perinatal support and earlyyears
settings in Scotland and more widely.