Sadie and Ethan arrive at every Break Free session smiling, full of energy, and ready to take part. They attend regularly with their parent and are a valued part of the group. They’re both confident, engaged, and always eager to join in. Like many families, however, the pressures they were facing at home weren’t immediately visible.
Earlier this year, during a session, their mum quietly approached a member of staff to ask for support. Despite being in full-time employment, rising food costs and household bills had begun to take their toll. With the added pressure of the festive period, she was struggling to keep up with day-to-day essentials while making sure her children continued to feel secure and cared for.
Through the Break Free Programme, we were able to provide practical, timely support which was made possible through a combination of community partnerships.
This included fresh fruit and vegetables, supplied through our partnership with Arthur David, helping the family to continue preparing healthy meals at home. Additional support, including a supermarket voucher and Christmas presents, was provided through the Lord Mayor’s Appeal, ensuring the children could enjoy the festive season without added worry. Access to fresh, nutritious food played a vital role. It not only helped to relieve immediate financial strain but also supported the family’s wellbeing, ensuring the children could continue to grow, learn, and take part fully in everyday life.
The impact went beyond the food itself. It reduced stress at home, created breathing space for the family, and reinforced that they were not alone in facing these challenges. This story reflects a growing reality across our communities: that even families in work are increasingly struggling to afford the basics, including healthy food. It also highlights the power of partnership, where organisations come together to provide practical, dignified support when it matters most.