Sibling support
Rainbow Trust Family Support Worker, Ben, was introduced to the Welch family in 2004. The oldest daughter in the family, Charlie, was ill having been diagnosed with a degenerative condition that affects all aspects of her life.
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Charlie was receiving all the support she needed but her two brothers, Adam and Joshua, needed some additional support as well. Ben spent time getting to know the boys, taking them out and gradually gaining their trust, allowing them valuable time to talk about their sister’s illness and their fears for the future.
One of Ben’s visits was on Adam’s birthday. This was particularly important to Charlie’s mother who was torn trying to meet the individual needs of all of her children. She was concerned that Adam’s birthday would be forgotten by extended family members who gave all their attention to Charlie. Charlie needs a high level of care as a result of her condition but her mother was anxious that neither Adam or Joshua felt left out. The fact that Ben visited just to see her sons meant that they could identify with him as the professional who was interested in their point of view and feelings rather than someone who visited predominantly to see Charlie.
“Wow you’ll come just for us.” Alison (13)
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