Wren's Story: big heart, brave rider

Wren's Story: big heart, brave rider

Wren, who is just 8 years old, plays an important role in caring for her twin brothers, who are both autistic. One of her brothers experiences strong emotional episodes, while the other is partially non‑verbal and communicates through sign. Despite her young age, Wren is incredibly understanding and emotionally supportive, helping her siblings feel calm, safe, and included.

Wren also helps by playing with and entertaining her brothers, which gives her parents a much‑needed break. She even helps with small household tasks to ease the pressure at home. Because of these caring responsibilities, Wren doesn’t always have the chance to just be a child, and she can sometimes miss out on time for herself.

During conversations with her Young Carers Support Worker, it became clear that Wren loved horses. Together, they explored ways she could have time to enjoy this passion just for herself.

Wren applied for a Time to Live microgrant, which funded a block of horse‑riding lessons and hands‑on time caring for the horses.

Wren's mum said:

“It’s great to see the boost in her confidence since having these breaks, and the stables have agreed to discount lessons going forward, which is brilliant - thank you Time to Live.”

The microgrant has given Wren not just a hobby, but a precious space to breathe, grow in confidence, and enjoy being a child.

Find out more about Time to Live here.