Basingstoke entrepreneur's programme supported by Vivid

The pilot scheme, centred on the concept of 'matrescence' - the physical, emotional and psychological transition to becoming a mother - launched this summer and involves five employers and 12 women.

Among those taking part is Hampshire-based housing provider Vivid.

Basingstoke entrepreneur Lucy Wilson, founder of Shine Strong Revolution. (Image: MAIA by Shine Strong Revolution)

Lucy Wilson, a Basingstoke entrepreneur and founder of Shine Strong Revolution, created the Matrescence Empowerment Programme MAIA, which underpins the pilot.

Ms Wilson said: "Workplaces have become much better at managing maternity leave, but there is still very little understanding of the transformation happening to the woman herself.

"Matrescence can affect identity, confidence, relationships, health and working life, yet women are often expected to find their way through it without structured development or support."

The pilot brings together businesses from sectors including housing, legal, hospitality, gaming merchandise and corporate gifting.

MAIA aims to offer a holistic, long-term approach to supporting women through the transition to motherhood.

The full programme is designed as a 30-month, employer-funded journey starting three months into pregnancy and continuing through maternity leave, return to work and the first two years of motherhood.

This summer’s 14-week pilot is testing the programme’s learning model, workplace integration and evaluation processes in a real-world setting.

Participants receive expert-led education across seven core areas, including maternal mental health, nutrition, mindfulness, breathwork and sleep.

The programme also features live sessions, input from midwives, practical resources and a private community so women can learn and share experiences together.

Mark Perry, chief executive at Vivid, said: "We already offer enhanced maternity leave and a flexible benefits package at Vivid, but we recognise that policies are only one part of supporting women as they become mothers.

"Pregnancy, maternity leave and the years following a return to work can bring significant personal and professional change, so MAIA is a valuable addition to the support we already provide."

Mr Perry said the pilot reflects Vivid’s commitment to inclusive workplace culture.

He said: "Our people are our strength, and supporting women to thrive at every stage of their working lives is an important part of creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels they belong and can fulfil their potential."

The pilot will help refine the MAIA programme before a wider commercial rollout.

Ms Wilson began exploring better ways to support mothers in 2021 after finding her own transition into motherhood challenging.

In 2026, she was recognised by Small Business Britain as one of the UK’s 100 leading female entrepreneurs through its f:Entrepreneur #IAlso100 campaign.