Santa Barbara Keep Calm and Mash Potatoes Gift Set

Natalie's Story

Natalie*, a mum of three, first visited her local Barnardo’s children’s centre nine years ago. After receiving support through the pandemic and cost-of-living crisis, she’s now using her experience in a new role as a family support worker.

“My oldest son has autism which is something that Barnardo’s has helped massively with,” she says. “The staff are so lovely, and they know the kids well. When my eldest reached two, it was clear he seemed different compared to the other children.”

“Learning that your child has autism can be really difficult for a parent to process, but Barnardo’s were brilliant at helping me get support not just for him but also for myself.”

“The staff realised I was struggling and when I was able to tell them about how I was feeling, it gave me such a sense of relief. The weight was lifted off my shoulders. I realised I wasn’t alone. Through Barnardo’s, I’ve been able to meet other parents with autistic children. As a group we’re able to give each other support and just be there for each other.”

When Natalie’s husband became unemployed during the pandemic, things became harder. “Barnardo’s provided us with supermarket vouchers and helped to top up the gas and electricity. The staff also worked with a local butcher who provided meat vouchers.”

“If it hadn’t been for Barnardo’s, we literally wouldn’t have survived.”

She remembers a family day to the zoo: “The kids had never been before. It was such a magical day… we felt like a normal family.”

Now Natalie supports others. “This wouldn’t have been possible without Barnardo’s… When I walk through the door and see the Barnardo’s green sign, it feels like a breath of fresh air and a break.”

“Whatever the challenge you’re dealing with, there’s never any judgement at Barnardo’s.”

*Name has been changed to protect the identities of the families we help.