One big family: We meet the Brussels Childbirth Trust

Having a baby and bringing up children in a new country can be a daunting experience - but help is at hand from one of the biggest international communities in Belgium.

More than 900 families - representing 70 nationalities - are currently members of the Brussels Childbirth Trust, a support network for expectant parents and families. The not-for-profit organisation is run entirely by volunteers, arranged in local groups.

The group organises a vast range of events and services - from information sessions on pregnancy in Belgium to prenatal courses, playgroups, coffee mornings and social outings.

"I came here with two small children and I just didn't know anythinng," says BCT president Jennifer Rose. "I didn't speak the language, I didn't know how to find a doctor right away, how to find schools, I didn't know where to look.

"I actually found the BCT before I moved out. I was looking online and I emailed them and said: 'I'm coming' and they said: 'Please come by. Here’s all this information, come to our playgroups, come to our local groups'. I met all of these wonderful people through this organisation.

"I hear this across the board from all of our members: the Brussels Childbirth Trust saved our lives. "And it did, it saved my life."

Kate Lehman says the BCT has been a lifeline. "I was so thankful to find the BCT and start coming to playgroups. All of the friends I have here in Belgium are from the BCT. There’s something for everyone.”

Joanna Wilkinson agrees: "It’s just good to know that the girls are mixing with other kids and then I get to talk to other mothers. It’s really good for that sort of connection and social outlet."

The biggest event in the BCT calendar takes place next Sunday, 7 May (13.00-15.30): the twice-yearly Nearly New Sale in the hall at Wezembeek-Oppem. It is an opportunity for parents to stock up on clothes, toys and other baby items for a fraction of their original price. Each product is hand-checked for quality and safety.

The second-hand sale is open to members and non-members alike and 20% of the proceeds go towards keeping the BCT's operations running.