Showcase - Family Guides Case Study

When Matthew and Emily first contacted Foothold Cymru, their main concern was completing a Disability Living Allowance application for their two-year-old daughter, Sarah, who has a significant disability.

As staff got to know the family, it became clear that their needs extended beyond the application. Financial pressure, social isolation, and anxiety were placing considerable strain on the household.

Foothold Cymru carried out a full benefits check, resulting in successful claims for Universal Credit, Child Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and Disability Living Allowance for Sarah.

The family also received budgeting support and joined the Community Pantry, providing access to affordable food. At Christmas, the children were delighted to receive gifts donated by a local supermarket, easing the financial burden during what is often a stressful time.

Recognising the family’s wider needs, staff referred them to a Flying Start Social Worker to resolve urgent housing repairs and encouraged them to attend community and family events. This helped rebuild confidence, strengthen peer connections, and create moments of joy together.

Referrals were also made to young carers’ services to ensure the older children received appropriate emotional and social support.

The impact has been life changing. The family’s income has increased substantially, they’ve developed stronger budgeting habits, and their home environment is more stable. The children have enjoyed new experiences, and the parents report feeling less anxious and more hopeful about the future.

As Matthew and Emily put it, “Overall, we feel more positive now, more hope for a positive change in the future.”