As a mother of twins, I know first-hand how much of a struggle it can be to give birth to, then bring up, two or more babies at the same time.

With the start of Twins, Triplets and More Week today (Monday, June 28), I am therefore writing to let other people in the area, who are expecting – or have recently had – a multiple birth, about a new and desperately needed initiative that will help prepare them for the challenges that lie ahead.

Nearly one in five mothers of multiple births develop post natal depression – that is almost double the number of mothers of singletons.

I have personal experience of PND.

Until now just one in three mothers have had access to specific parent education on having a multiple birth, which is really worrying as research shows that lack of access to such classes increases mothers’ chances of developing Post Natal Depression.

It does not have to be this way! The Twins And Multiple Births Association (Tamba) is launching a groundbreaking pre- and ante-natal initiative, “Get ready for multiples!’, which is designed to prepare parents for the challenges of a multiple birth.

The launch includes free and subsidised “survival” classes for expectant parents, and a free practical guide to help parents who may be suffering from Post Natal Depression – see http://bit.ly/multiplebirths for information. Tamba also has a free helpline on 0800 138 0509.

Cllr Michelle Houldsworth, mum to Jack and Connor Houldsworth