South Leeds family tells of its COVID-19 fears and hopes

But Kate Craven, who has two boys with learning disabilities, also praised the way Leeds support charities had rallied round to help them during the health crisis.

Kate, 32, and her husband David have three children, two of whom have learning disabilities.

In normal times they would rely on a whole host of support groups in Leeds. These include going on day trips with additional needs support group Little Hiccups.

The family would also would go to People in Action’s ‘Play Fun Learn’ scheme. Until recently, her boys went to Leeds Mencap’s youth club, while their sister attended The Siblings Group for those who have a brother or sister with a learning disability.

But the lockdown has curtailed the physical sessions of many charity groups across the city. Most of them have had to switch to online support, but that can’t quite replicate the in person, social contact, which many families crave.

Kate said: “We have lost not only routine and friends, but also respite.”

She is also worried about her husband’s job security and how they will cope with paying bills like rent and council tax.

The mum-of-three is also a carer to her own mum. But because of the shielding protocols, Kate has not been able to help her mum like she usually would.

Kate said: “This virus could definitely affect my mum’s health, and one of my sons who has asthma.”

But she said support charities in Leeds had responded magnificently to the challenging times. The mum-of-three added: “Charities that we have used for many years are offering support services, advice and guidance - and in many cases food support.”

She cited Bramley Elderly Action as a prime example of a charity which has eased her worries. Kate said: “I found this charity, which is local to my mum, that are offering help and support to elderly and vulnerable people.

“Luckily, they are able to step in to help my mum, when I can’t, by offering a food shopping delivery service, support and assistance. They also help with prescriptions and much more - for which I’m so grateful for.”

She thinks when people consider what they have lost during the COVID-19 crisis, they should also reflect on how families have benefitted from support groups who have adapted to these testing times.

Many have used online technology, like video conferencing app Zoom, to bridge the gap of not being able to meet in person.

Kate said: “While we have lost our services, our groups and events. We haven’t lost them at the same time.

“The charities that we and many use are changing and adapting to this unique and difficult situation. They are stepping in and up to help many people.”

The parent said she had been touched by offers of support from charities and felt reassured that help was only a phone call or email away. She also feels we are all in this together and collectively searching for a way through.

Kate added: “I’ve been lost in my mind with worries. But I’m also so grateful for the support the charities are able to help us with. Without them we’d be lost.

She added: “There is support out there for families. We’re looking forward to future days out and events when things hopefully get better.”

CASE STUDY:

Little Hiccups in Leeds is one of the support groups that has been helping the Craven family.

The families’ network was set up by parents who have children with additional needs and disabilities.

In normal circumstances it offers a full range of support. This includes an outreach programme for families who aren’t quite ready to attend its sessions. Before the coronavirus lockdown it also ran group activities like ‘Stay n Play’ at The Vinery Centre and its monthly family fun days.

But its secretary Miriam Watson-Pratt said: “Little Hiccups has had to close many of its services down and did so rapidly as so many of our families are classed as vulnerable.

“We’re doing our best to reach out and support our families online via social media. Our counselling service is continuing, albeit via video or telephone and we consider this an essential service to continue in these uncertain times.

“The trustees are also in close communication with each other on a daily basis to discuss the rapidly changing situations and to plan for the future. We are also encouraging families to join us in our Facebook group for parents and carers, to share information and advice - and to continue the strong camaraderie we have.

“The Little Hiccups ethos is #NoLimits and #MakingMemories and we will continue to follow this. We are stronger together and will get through this together.”

See www.littlehiccups.co.uk for more.