First Hand Account of Big Hoose Impact

• The young person I support came to Barnardo's through SDS as they had left school with not a lot of qualifications and were struggling to find work. 

• During the summer after leaving school the family tragically lost their father through suicide, this trauma had a significant impact on their mental health and as he was the main income earner their quality of living suffered. Also within the family is an older sister who is a single parent, living on her own.  My young person often goes to live with her sister to help support her with parental duties but also as a home to live in as her mother is often away supporting an elderly parent in England.

•  I put in the referral for the Big Hoose because I saw a great need within this family, not just to help them as they were struggling financially but also because they were feeling so low, hopeless and alone.

• The first time we went to collect the Big Hoose order, the young person and her sister cried as they couldn't believe that all the items were for them.  They were especially overwhelmed with the quality of items and felt they were so undeserving of receiving anything so special and without cost.  They were also so appreciative of items received just before Christmas as they were able to give Christmas presents for the child of the single parent, who was 18 months at the time - things like books and essential clothing.

• As I support my young person with gaining employment, some of the items received have boosted her confidence, like smart clothing and make up, as she goes for job interviews and items such as stationery which was need to put her through training for her chosen career.

• I have seen this family go from hopeless and despair to feeling so supported and grateful that they know the basics will be covered by the Big Hoose.  This breathing space has allowed my young person to begin to be hopeful that, as we work together, she will be able to become employed and eventually support herself independently in the months to come.