“What we learn from Charlie” Workshop, Supporting Siblings of children with disabilities/additional needs

This was the first time that Entrust Care Partnership had organised a Sibling Support Group. The group was run from Ridgeway Special Needs School. They, in conjunction with Entrust Care Partnership, had identified the need and a gap for such a service.

As per the condition of the Trust the focus was given on supporting families from Warwick. The group was attended by 12 young people, the age range was 6 – 13. This was a greater age range and the youngest lower than was envisaged. However, there was a need for the younger children, so were able to be flexible. The older people in the group joined after the initial few weeks.

The sessions provided a wide range of activities and a safe and nurturing environment.  Many of the activities provided had a therapeutic element or were adapted to do so.  Young people were given a safe environment in which to express their thoughts, feelings and concerns/worries.  A fully trained Counsellor was available at all times, with young people accessing support on a weekly basis as needed, but also on an ongoing basis now the group has finished, for small number of young people from the group.

The outcomes of the project were, Siblings participating will feel:-

• Less isolated having connected with others in the same or a similar position
• Well supported by the adults present and able to raise topics which concern them and subsequently engage in a non-judgmental discussion with the person
• That they have been given focussed space which is considered unique to them
• That they have a social network upon which they can draw
• Better equipped and more resilient to meet the challenges of being a sibling of a disabled child.

This project was supported by a grant of £5,000 from The King Henry VIII Endowed Trust, Warwick.