Mothers’ Union

Mothers’ Union is a Christian organisation that has been supporting families worldwide for over 140 years. Started by our founder Mary Sumner in 1876 in her local parish, we have grown into an international charity with over 4 million members in 84 countries.

During the Summer, the Mothers’ Union celebrates Founder’s Day when we remember Mary Sumner and her work. Today, her work continues on the island, members knit shawls, bonnets, jackets and blankets for the prem-baby unit. We also man a tent at the Agricultural Show, where mums with babies and toddlers can find feeding and nappy-changing facilities.

Each weekend, two members go to the prison, on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon, to take care of prisoners’ children and run the crêche. This idea was originally proposed, and organised, by Brenda Willoughby in 2004. Liz JoweƩ joins Judith Vincent (St Ninians) to organise a session once a month.

Mothers’ Union also provide “emergency” toilet bags for parents who are admitted into Noble’s Hospital unexpectedly. Each branch provides 6 bags (Jo Garten makes the bags for our branch) and members provide toiletries – combs, razors and gel gor men, and tissues – enough for 3 or 4 days. These are especially needed during TT fortnight. We, as a branch, are once again joining with St Thomas’ for their meetings and we will be enjoying a Christmas Lunch with them, in December.

During 2023, we have been working with Housing Matters; we cannot give money but we, as 14 branches across the island, have donated 57 kettles, 16 toasters, 1 slow cooker, 1 coffee machine and 10 microwave ovens (St George & All Saints MU collected 13 items), so thank you for supporting us in this venture.

Personnel & Contact Details

For more details about Mother's Union and where and when the meetings take place please get in touch with the Parish Office on sgasparishoffice@gmail.com