All names have been changed to protect anonymity.
The family were referred to our service via their local children’s centre worker. The family have limited support due to their extended family living in another country and having no support network in the area. They have three children – 2 of whom have additional needs and have difficulty sleeping.
Support offered
The family were offered the support of a home visiting volunteer but also to help Mum to feel less isolated they were invited to the outdoor playgroup at The Puddle.
Mum at first was unsure about the Puddle and her youngest child would get upset about being put on the ground. However, after they have been attending for the last few weeks her son’s confidence has notably increased and he is now walking around independently. Mum also attends playgroup regularly and has become friends with many of the mums.
Outcomes
The post-questionnaire scores for Mum have increased greatly with her giving herself a high score for each question and stating that she never feels lonely or isolated anymore. In reference to this Mum has said
“I have really enjoyed the outdoor playgroup and have really liked bonding with all the mothers. It is a great opportunity to get my son out of the house and for him to be somewhere with other children. It has meant such a lot to us that we have been able to challenge him and support him to interact with others”