The Unseen Reality of Being a Parent Carer: A Journey of Love, Resilience, and Unwavering Dedication
As a parent carer, I often find myself reflecting on the many challenges and sacrifices that come with this role—one that is rarely understood or acknowledged by those outside of it. No baby books, no sex education classes prepared me for the reality of raising a child with disabilities. I wasn’t told what to expect or how to navigate the complex world of autism, ADHD, or the endless demands that come with caring for multiple children with special needs.
When I first embarked on this journey, I was unprepared. Like many carers, I learned as I went along—accessing resources wherever I could, reaching out for support, and trying to find a way to give my children the best possible life. Now, fifteen years later, as my eldest approaches their 16th birthday, I still find myself adapting, learning, and growing alongside them. Over the years, I’ve welcomed three more children into our family, each bringing their own needs, joys, and challenges.
Being a parent carer to multiple children with disabilities is akin to working a 12-hour shift in the care sector—yet, there are no breaks, no moments of respite and pay of £82 a week in carers allowance. You’re constantly on alert, always searching for signs of communication, cues, or needs. I’ve even learned Makaton—just so I can give my youngest a fighting chance to speak, to connect, to express themselves. The relentless demand on unpaid carers like us is overwhelming, and the lack of adequate support is one of the greatest failures in our society.
This is why I am so passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces for carers to share, vent, and find solace. That’s how our SEN Chat Sessions with Caroline came to be—a non-judgmental environment where carers can release their frustrations, share their laughter, cry if they need to, and simply be heard. We all need that escape, that moment of relief, and yet, such spaces are scarce or unavailable.
To make a difference, we’ve decided to offer our services absolutely free. Our charity is non-profit, driven purely by our own time and passion to support others. We believe that no carer should be excluded from accessing the help they need simply because of cost. Every donation, even the smallest, helps us keep these vital services running and accessible to all who need them.
Caring for children with disabilities is a journey filled with love, resilience, and sometimes, heartbreak. It’s a path that demands strength, patience, and a community that understands. We are here to remind every parent carer that you are not alone. Your sacrifices matter, your struggles are real, and your well-being is just as important as that of the children you love so fiercely.
If you’re a carer in need of support, please join our SEN Chat Sessions. If you can, consider donating—your generosity can help us continue providing a safe haven for carers who give so much, often without recognition or support.
FIND THE FREE SESSIONS IN OUR SHOP SECTION TO BOOK AT A CONVENIENT TIME WITH CAZ OR EMAIL family.roraproject@gmail.com
Together, we can build a community where no carer feels isolated. Because, at the end of the day, we all deserve love, understanding, and a little bit of kindness.
With love and solidarity,
Chantelle