Helping parents get the support they need: Alexandra’s story
Alexandra was struggling to manage her child’s additional needs whilst suffering with her own mental health.
Joel was two when he was first referred to Action for Children after his mum, Alexandra, struggled with his challenging behaviour. Mother-of-two Alexandra suspected that Joel might have additional needs as he also wasn’t meeting development milestones.
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“Even back when Joel was a toddler there were obvious signs that he was different from other kids. He wasn’t walking and talking like the other kids his age and eventually his younger brother was overtaking him. He’s now under assessment for ADHD and ASD but it has taken years.”
Carol Jones, a Family Support Worker at Carmarthenshire Parenting, started visiting Alexandra in her home to support her emotionally and with parenting tips.
“Bedtime was the worst. Joel was obsessed with the bottle and just wouldn’t sleep. I was really struggling. Carol [Action for Children] was so understanding. She really did become my best friend. It was just a relief when she visited. I had a bit of breathing space.”
Carol helped the family to develop better routines, especially around bedtime, which helped Joel to become calmer. She also arranged for Alexandra to join an online ADHD support group meeting with other parents of neurodiverse children, which she found invaluable.
Alexandra is unable to work due to Joel’s additional needs and having her own mental health challenges, which at times has left her struggling financially.
At the start of the school year Action for Children helped to fund Joel and Kiyan’s school
uniform, through the partnership with Turner & Townsend.
“Having Action for Children fund the boys’ school uniform was a major help. We had jumpers, polo shirts, bags and even shoes, which are the most expensive item by far. I’m so grateful for that. It was just a huge relief.”
Costs can be as much as £422 per child in secondary school
The family also had support at Christmas, which can be a difficult time for parents struggling financially. Carol surprised the family with a Christmas Eve box filled with treats and £100 of food vouchers to buy a turkey, vegetables and trimmings, and chocolate treats for the boys.
Alexandra feels grateful for the support she has received from Action for Children and the positive impact it has had on her and her children's lives.
“Carol is just amazing in every way. There were days where I thought I just can’t cope. It’s all just too much. But I knew I could call Carol to get things off my chest and I always felt so much better afterwards."
It’s like a safe space where you can just talk about anything. There’s no judgment, no criticism. At times I don’t know what I would have done without her.
“Carol has been back and forth with us as a family for years and honestly what an amazing person she is. My kids love her, and she really has been like a best friend to me.
“I can’t thank Action for Children enough for all the support we’ve had. From the financial help with the boys’ uniforms and the Christmas food, to the parenting support and support with the children. Carol just covered it all.”
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