Billie’s negative behaviours at school and home were escalating after her father’s arrest. Arguments at home, increased unhealthy behaviours and spiralling anxiety were just some of the side effects of her trauma.
After her referral to Breaking Barriers, Billie was provided with weekly support sessions in school and at home. She set goals and developed coping strategies for managing stress, including creating a ‘self-soothe’ pack to improve her resilience.
Billie also participated in the development of the Dylan’s Story book, allowing her to explore her feelings about her father’s arrest and its impact on her emotional wellbeing. Billie also made use of resources that helped her to understand her father’s situation in prison and quell any misconceptions she had.
Breaking Barriers’ support made a significant difference to Billie’s life. She said she felt less angry and more open to understanding the emotions of others – a mediation-style session held at her home addressed the challenges in Billie’s relationship with her mother and helped them to find common ground.
Both Billie and her mother validated each other’s feelings. The work of the Breaking Barriers team facilitated a shift towards a more harmonious family dynamic and a happier home environment.
“I feel less angry at everything now and I’m more open to understanding other people’s emotions. I’m grateful for the support I received.”
