In the heart of Tower Hamlets, a grassroots community of parents and carers is making a big difference to local families. The Tower Hamlets Family Meetup, led by Dr Mel Pinet, has become a lifeline for new and expecting parents, and a safe, welcoming space to connect, share, and play.
What began over eight years ago with six parents gathered in Mel’s living room has since grown into a thriving community. Today, the group regularly welcomes 30-40 families each month, with some events drawing up to 70 parents and carers. The mission remains the same as when it began: to offer a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive community for anyone navigating the early years of parenthood.
Parents, caregivers and children at the Tower Hamlets Family Meetup, 4th September 2025
We chatted to Mel to find out more about the meetup community she has built and how EasyPeasy has supported them as part of our Power of Play Parent Meetups programme.
About the Tower Hamlets Family Meetup
The idea for the Tower Hamlets Family Meetup began more than eight years ago, when Mel and a close friend were both pregnant with their second children. At the time, Mel was already running a sling library and support group, but she felt there was a need for something bigger.
“We realised we really could do with having a proper support group in our area – something that went beyond just slings or home birth support,” Mel explains. “We wanted a space that covered lots of different perinatal areas, but most of all, somewhere new parents could meet others.”
Mel also recognised how many new parents locally were struggling with loneliness and isolation. “One of the leading causes of maternal death is suicide, and loneliness is a major factor,” explains Mel. “We wanted to create a space where parents could meet others, find support, and not feel alone. It’s not just for mums – we welcome dads, LGBTQ+ families, everyone.”
The first meeting took place in Mel’s living room, with just six or seven people, including a doula and antenatal support volunteer. From there, the group quickly outgrew homes and coffee shops, moving eventually to larger community venues as word spread.
“We started small, but it just grew and grew,” Mel recalls. “Word of mouth travelled fast, more parents kept showing up, and more professionals wanted to come and support the group for free. It became a real hub for families in Tower Hamlets.”
The meetups now take place at Poplar Union, a community venue in Tower Hamlets, on the first Thursday of every month. Families can drop in freely, stay as long as they like, and take part in a relaxed, unstructured session. The space is set up with mats, cushions, and donated toys to encourage natural, playful interaction between babies and toddlers. Toddlers often run around in the adjoining garden, while parents sit and chat. The emphasis is always on unstructured play and genuine connection rather than structured baby classes.
Parents, caregivers and children at the Tower Hamlets Family Meetup, 4th September 2025
Alongside this, local professionals – from first aid trainers and relaxation consultants to sling library experts – attend voluntarily to offer free support. Parents can also make use of the group’s second-hand clothes donation table, promoting eco-friendly and affordable parenting.
The group has built a strong digital presence too, with a WhatsApp support group of over 350 parents and regular updates shared across local Facebook groups. This online space helps caregivers stay connected, seek advice, and support one another beyond the monthly meetups.
“It’s really active, and it’s lovely to see parents supporting each other,” says Mel. “I just step in when I need to signpost someone to professional help. Otherwise, they look after each other, which is exactly what I wanted.”
Parents, caregivers and children at the Tower Hamlets Family Meetup, 4th September 2025
Partnering with EasyPeasy to support Learning Through Play
Through the Power of Play programme in Tower Hamlets, EasyPeasy has provided funding to cover venue hire for three months of meetups. This support has created space for more meaningful conversations, reduced financial pressure on parents, and ensured the group remains accessible to everyone.
“For me, the funding was such a massive relief,” says Mel. “It's really helped us basically say, okay, we don't need to get donations for a certain month. It's relieved the pressure, because for me, also asking for donations takes away from my time supporting people. Although the donations are always voluntary and parents don't have to donate if they can’t, it has also made it easier for low-income families to attend, knowing they weren’t expected to contribute.”
Mel and the group also contribute to the EasyPeasy app, creating playful activities for parents and caregivers to try at home. One favourite is “Float or Sink? A Fun Sensory Game for Hot Days!”
EasyPeasy app activities and tips created by Mel Pinet
“It’s simple – children collect natural objects from the garden, like leaves or stones, and guess whether they’ll float or sink in water,” Mel explains. “It’s free, fun, and a brilliant way for children to learn about science through play.”
For Mel, this captures the essence of what matters most: “Learning through play is how children really learn. The things they do – building dens, baking, making potions in the garden – they’ll remember those forever. It’s not like sitting at a desk at school. It’s natural, joyful learning.”
Find out more about EasyPeasy Parent Meetups
EasyPeasy Parent Meetups are part of the Power of Play programme – bringing families together to connect, share experiences, and discover the benefits of playful learning.
Mel encourages other local parents and carers to consider starting their own groups:
“Do it. Whether it’s a dads’ group, a language-based group, or something else – just start. You’ll be amazed how many families are looking for connection. And remember, these groups aren’t just about babies. They’re a chance for parents to have adult conversations too, which is just as important.”
We provide funding, resources, and practical support to help local parents and carers set up their own community groups. Whether you want to create a space for mums, dads, grandparents, or carers, EasyPeasy can help you get started.
By joining the programme, you’ll:
- Receive funding to cover the basics, like venue hire.
- Access play-based resources and activities to use in your group.
- Be part of a growing network of local parent leaders across Tower Hamlets.
- Help families of children aged 0–5 years build friendships, confidence, and playful home learning routines.
Interested in setting up a parent meetup in Tower Hamlets? Read more and fill in a simple application form!