Katie was referred to us by Community Mental Health Services. She had long-standing mental health issues, including depression and high levels of anxiety. She lacked confidence and had low self-esteem.
She had recently moved to a rural, isolated village with her daughter Tia who was 18 months old. She had had to move suddenly due to the abuse and violence from Tia’s dad. She was away from her family and friends and with her high levels of anxiety did not feel able to go out.
What did we do?
Our volunteer visited the family for two hours every week and with the volunteer’s careful non-judgemental support Katie’s confidence improved. The volunteer enabled Katie to go to a local toddler group which benefitted both Katie and Tia. The volunteer supported Katie to organise access to a pre-school setting and helped her with two-year funding.
Whilst the volunteer was visiting the family, she noticed some developmental delay with Tia and with Katie’s consent this was highlighted to the Health Visitor. Eventually Tia was seen by other agencies and was diagnosed with an Autistic Spectrum Condition.
The volunteer provided much needed emotional support, especially through the stress of her ex-partner’s court case.
What difference did we make?
At the end of our support Katie’s confidence had improved and she is feeling more positive and is able to go out and ensure that Tia consistently goes to her pre-school.
Katie is also feeling able to deal with other agencies and professionals regarding Tia’s development and has been able to access training for herself around Autistic Spectrum Condition and strategies to deal with Tia’s behaviour and needs.
*Names have been changed
