Lucinda* has two gorgeous young children, Tommy, seven, and Mark who is nearly one. She wants to give her children everything, but she is struggling.

Mark has some ongoing health issues and Lucinda needs to frequently bring him to the hospital for appointments and check-ups. Lucinda and the children’s Dad separated, and she looks after their two young children on her own. With Mark’s health not improving; she had to quit her job.

She had been working all her life, and now she was finding herself with no job and no support. Financial difficulties started to creep in. So, she contacted Barnardos.

Her project worker, Mary, started dropping some food packs at Lucinda’s house to make sure the children and their Mam had access to enough food every day. Mary sat down with Lucinda to look at bills and other upcoming expenses, and together they created a plan to help Lucinda manage her finances.

They also discussed self-care and Mary explained how important it was for Lucinda to look after herself so she could be here for her little boys. Lucinda attended a parent’s group where she got advice and recommendations of activities she could do with Mark to support his development. Speaking to other parents who were in similar situations also helped Lucinda to realise she wasn’t as alone as she felt.

Lucinda’s story is one of resilience, love, and the power of someone standing by your side when it matters most.