When I moved to the UK, I came alone, leaving my child to my parents to have that initial footing before bringing Ishaanvi here. Building a support system in a new country is always a challenging job to do. We begin with understanding things like -the climate, culture, education, money management and the healthcare system. Everything is different and it took me a while to understand things before I could get my child here.
Besides that, as a single mother, I also needed a strong and trusting support system I can rely on when I needed practical help, and a sense of community. Here are some ways that helped me with finding and building a support system in an unknown country:
5 ways helped me with building a support system
- Join local groups and communities: Look for groups or communities that share your interests or values. This could be a support group, a hobby group, a religious group, or a volunteer organization. Joining such groups will allow you to meet people with similar interests and form meaningful connections.
- Attend local events and social gatherings: Attend local events, parties, and social gatherings where you can meet new people. Be open to making new connections and be willing to share your story and ask for help when you need it.
- Use social media: Social media can be a great way to connect with people in a new country. Look for groups or forums related to single mothers in the country you’re living in. You can also connect with people through dating apps or friendship apps.
- Connect with other single mothers: You may find other single mothers in your community or through your child’s school or daycare. Reach out to them and understand how they manage things around. Share your experiences, exchange tips, and offer each other support.
- Be a supportive ally yourself: Building a strong support system isn’t just about receiving support, it’s also about giving support. Be there for your friends, family, and community members when they need it, and offer your skills, expertise, and time to help others.
Building a support system takes time and effort. Be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. With a little bit of effort, you can build a strong network of allies that will be there for you through thick and thin, even in a new country as a single mother. Don’t be afraid to reach out to others, ask for help, and build relationships.
This post is a part of #BlogchatterA2Z 2023
