Asking for help is hard

Parents raising a disabled or seriously ill child on a low income often need all the help they can get. Family Fund offers a helping hand to families, by giving them grant items they need like a new washing machine, sensory toys or a specialist bike. These items make a huge difference to family lives. But asking for help the first time can be hard. We spoke to the families we support about how they felt the first time they applied to Family Fund’s support.

Overcoming the feeling of guilt

Louise decided to share her family’s story because of the time it took her to accept support for her family. Her son Ruairidh has autism, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and sensory issues. He requires a lot of attention and support, especially when away from the family home.

“It took a long time to realise that we needed to accept the support, and to get over the feelings of guilt. That financial support to do something fun means everything to us. By offering us support, grants or a break, Family Fund are saying to families like ours: ‘We see you, and we know how hard it is’.”

– Louise, Ruairidh’s mum

Your life can change overnight

Nafisa was in a bike accident leaving her with significant brain injuries and Functional Neurological Disorder (FND). Her family’s life changed instantly, and Rabia, her mum, told us:

“Sometimes it is hard to ask for help. Our reality is very different now. I had to say, ‘My family needs help’. So when Nafisa was in hospital, I was told about Family Fund and received a clothing grant. This was so helpful for shoes and clothes for the kids, especially as they are in adult sizes now and it’s much more expensive. I can’t work due to caring for Nafisa, and with the cost-of-living crisis, costs are so much higher than before. I’m on my own with no wider family to help us. So Family Fund’s support allowed me to give something to my children, as their mother.”

– Rabia, Nafisa’s mum

We’re here to help

Holly is mum to Olivia and Matthew, who both have additional learning needs and neurodiversity. She shares her advice for those feeling unsure about seeking support:

“I really encourage other families to just apply, and don’t feel bad about it. I applied recently to Family Fund for the first time, and I should’ve started a long time ago. I always thought, ‘There might be kids out there who need this more than we do’. Sometimes you feel bad asking for help or support. And sometimes we’re even made to feel guilty, but the help and support is there from Family Fund. When you receive that grant, you realise just how much you needed it mentally, emotionally and physically.”

– Holly, Olivia and Matthew’s mum

If you are raising a disabled or seriously ill child on a low income, or know someone who is,you can learn more about Family Fund’s support on our grants webpage.