A charity that supports new parents across Cheshire East is celebrating an important milestone in 2026.

Smile Group turns 15-years-old this year, having been founded by Ruth Williams from Sandbach and Natalie Nuttall in 2011.

While undoubtedly an achievement, it also highlights the growing need for support in the community with demand for their services continuing to rise.

Anna Maddox, chair of trustees for Smile Group, said: "I am so proud of what Smile Group has achieved in the 15 years since Natalie Nuttall and Ruth Williams saw that new parents needed more support.

"In that time, the charity has helped over 2,000 new parents.

"I can't wait to see what the next 15 years bring!"

Natalie and Ruth set up Smile Group after identifying a gap in community support, with both having first-hand experience of perinatal mental health challenges.

Ruth, who lives in Sandbach said: "We used to run a group in sandbach but the children's centre was repurposed and returned to the school.

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"We have run and will periodically do our PCZ course in Sandbach."

Today, the charity provides practical and emotional support during pregnancy and early parenthood, helping families navigate what can often be a vulnerable and overwhelming time.

They run peer support groups in Congleton, Macclesfield and Crewe, as well as offering 1:1 home visits, talk therapy and monthly family sessions at Ruby's in Congleton.

The charity is hosting a celebration evening on June 27 at Astbury Village Hall (Credit: Smile Group)

To mark the 15th anniversary, Smile Group are hosting an evening of celebration at Astbury Village Hall.

Taking place on Saturday, June 27, the event will feature a silent disco, a games room and a buffet.

Tickets are priced at £25 or £15 for current Smile Group service users, with all funds raised going towards supporting the charity's work across the borough.