Inspiring Stories

A Young Girl’s Journey with Home Start Cymru

Three decades ago, Sarah and her three siblings faced a challenging childhood, living with their mother who was battling ongoing mental health issues, domestic violence, substance misuse and alcohol. As a young 6-year-old girl, life was far from ordinary for Sarah. However, everything changed when a kind-hearted volunteer from Home Start Cymru entered their lives allowing them to have the opportunity to thrive and experience the joys of childhood, like every child should!

During the Home Start Cymru visits, Sarah felt an immediate connection with the volunteer, finding comfort and joy in their presence. It was during these visits that Sarah experienced moments of pure childhood happiness, where she could freely embrace her playful and carefree nature, allowing her to feel safe and open. The volunteer brought fun and laughter into their home, allowing Sarah and her siblings to escape the struggles and battles of their everyday lives, which had become the norm.

As the months went by, the support and the connection from Home Start Cymru continued to make a lasting impact. One day, the generous volunteer suggested taking Sarah, her siblings, and mother to Folly Farm for a much-needed day of amusement. Despite the rainy weather, they had a remarkable time, not allowing a little mud to dampen their spirits. For the first time in a long while, they enjoyed themselves as a family, creating cherished memories that Sarah will always hold dear.

The visits from Home Start Cymru brought happiness and positivity into their home. Even after the volunteer left, Sarah noticed a significant improvement in her mother’s mood and actions, directly impacting the children, hours after she had left. 

Looking back, Sarah is filled with gratitude for the incredible support she received from Home Start Cymru during her childhood. Though her mother still requires greatly suffers with her mental health and addictions, Sarah has come full circle and now works as an employee for Home Start Cymru, determined to make a difference in the lives of others experiencing similar childhood difficulties. Sarah is trained as a Housing Coordinator and is currently undergoing additional training to become a Project Coordinator.  She attributes some of her own life experience’s, personal growth and well-being to Home Start Cymru and is passionate about providing support to those who need it most.

Home Start Cymru’s mission is to be there for parents when they need it the most, recognising that childhood cannot wait. Sarah’s story is a testament to the transformative power of the work Home Start Cymru does in supporting families. Sarah enjoys inspiring others to overcome challenges and create brighter futures for themselves and their families.

Together, with Home Start Cymru’s unwavering support, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive and experience the joys of childhood.