Actually, its through my local NCT that I have personally managed to make so many friends of other local mothers- some of us have been meeting up for over 2 years now and I know many people who remain in contact for a longer time than that. Our little group arranges to babysit for each other and nights out. Would still recommend it as a way of networking at the outside but at best with the potential to make many long lasting friendships and mutual support networks. I can PM you with some contact details of New Parents Supporters if you want.