Overview
Caring for a child or young person with additional needs can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Taking care of your own wellbeing is not a luxury-it is essential.
Find support early, build resilience, and practice self-care before things become overwhelming.
Self-care tips
Sometimes you might need help from others, but it is also really important to take care of yourself every day. Looking after yourself does not have to be a big thing like going on a trip. It can be small and simple—like having a cup of tea, reading a book, playing with your pet, or listening to something fun. These are all good ways to feel better and stay happy.
Find out more tips and ideas to fit self-care around caring responsibilities from some of the links in the ‘Other information’ section.
Build a support network
The Somerset Parent Carer Forum offer peer support, as well as advice and information around young people with SEND.
They hold regular meetings, group chats, and workshops where parents can talk about their worries, share ideas and improve the lives of their families. They also give parents and carers practical and emotional support.
There are also other support groups you can access to meet others in similar situations.
Care for the Family run the Careline confidential phone and email service which can be accessed by all adults in the UK. Email mail@cff.org.uk or phone 029 2081 0800. They also offer a phone befriending support service for parents who have a child with additional needs.
Contact for families with disabled children run the Listening Ear service for parent carers in the UK. This offers a phone appointment with a family support adviser to offer emotional support and reassurance. They can provide practical help too.
Managing relationship conflict
All relationships are a work in progress and family life is challenging. Disagreements and arguments between parents are normal and part of everyday life. But if you find your arguments are becoming more frequent, intense and you don’t seem able to resolve them or move on, help is available.
Find out more about managing relationship conflict. This also includes support for separated parents.