Ingrid's story: calm in card-making

Ingrid's story: calm in card-making

Ingrid cares for her daughter who lives with global developmental delay and autism. Alongside this, she is also raising two other children, balancing the demands of family life while navigating the complexities of her daughter’s care needs.

This journey is not always easy as her partner works shifts and Ingrid often manages the household on her own. The home can sometimes feel busy, noisy and overwhelming, especially when everyone’s needs overlap. Like many unpaid carers, Ingrid also lives with her own challenges, including depression and anxiety, which can make everyday tasks and routines even more difficult.

Despite these pressures, Ingrid’s main hope is simple: to keep her children happy, safe and connected. Family time is incredibly important to her, and she is always looking for ways to bring everyone together.

After reaching out to her local carers' centre for support, Ingrid shared her passion for arts and crafts. She especially enjoys making handmade cards for friends and family, finding comfort and calm in being creative. Crafting has become her way to relax and take time for herself. With the help of a Time to Live microgrant, Ingrid was able to purchase an embossing machine and card-making supplies. This has made a meaningful difference to Ingrid.

Creativity has also become a powerful tool within the family. Ingrid has found that when caring feels particularly stressful or overwhelming, focusing on ideas for new designs helps her shift her mindset.

“At times when caring has felt impossible and stressful, I know I can think about designs and ideas. Sometimes when I talk about these ideas, my daughter goes quieter and listens. Then we plan ideas for cards, and this really helps her focus.”

Through this shared activity, Ingrid has been able to create special moments with her children. Crafting together has encouraged togetherness and improved communication, which has brought a sense of calm and enjoyment into the home.

“As a family, I find that I can work with the children and include them in art projects and card ideas. This has really helped us work together and enjoy the time together too.”

For Ingrid, creativity is more than just a hobby - it’s a lifeline. It offers her space to breathe, flex her creativity and connect with her children.

Find out more about Time to Live here.