Strength in partnership: combined microgrants

Strength in partnership: combined microgrants

Amy is a single mum to two boys, one of which has  ADHD, Global Developmental Delay, mild learning difficulties and is awaiting an ASD assessment. Meanwhile, Beth is a single mum to one boy, also awaiting an ASD assessment. Both children experience high levels of challenging behaviour, sleep disturbances, sensory issues, and require constant prompting and supervision to stay safe.

Opportunities for these parents to take time away from their caring roles are extremely limited. The boys’ needs can be overwhelming in certain environments, but the parents have developed a strong peer support system, stepping in to help each other when needed.

When discussing the Time to Live fund, both parents shared their dream of a short break - a caravan holiday close to home where they could support each other and their children. They identified a 7-night stay at Haven as the ideal solution. To ensure everyone had space to retreat when needed, they each applied for a microgrant to cover accommodation costs.

This joint holiday would provide respite, reducing stress, and creating opportunities for shared experiences. As single parents on single incomes, any money they saved on accommodation could be used for activities and travel, adding additional value to the break.

The holiday gave both families something to look forward to. With accommodation covered by microgrants, they could plan a much-needed break.

“We supported each other with the kids. There was understanding of the difficulties, and friendship when the boys were settled - a much-needed change to our daily routine. The boys had each other to play with, which reduced many pressures.”

Find out more about Time to Live here.