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← Family Friends (Wrexham)

2025-03-31-accounts

Annual Report Adorddiad Blynyddol

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Registered Charity number 1160655

To support families with a child aged between 0 –14 living within the County Borough of Wrexham. I gefnogi teuluoedd gyda phlant rhwng 0 a 14 yn byw yn ardal Cyngor Bwrdeistref Wrexham

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Family Friends

www.family-friends.co.uk

Chair’s Foreword 4 Manager’s Reflection 5 Treasurer’s Report 7 Report of Trustees and Audited Statements 8 Reference and Administration Details 13 Referral and Service Delivery reports 15 Supported Family and Volunteer stories 29 Meet the Team and Thanks 40

Chair’s Foreword I would like to welcome you to our 2024/2025 AGM. Thank you all for taking the time to join us to hear what has been happening within the charity over ~~FO~~ the past twelve months. It has been a year of positive change and real progress for our charity. I am delighted to report that the transition to our new Manager, Jo, has gone extremely well. Her leadership, along with the dedication of the whole team, has brought fresh energy and new systems that are already making a real difference.

We are now capturing data more effectively and have stronger systems in place to ensure our programmes are managed with care and impact. This means we can clearly see the difference our work is making in the lives of families, and we can confidently share that story with supporters and funders.

I am incredibly proud of our staff and volunteers. Their passion, commitment, and tireless efforts have allowed us to achieve so much this year. Every achievement reflects their hard work and the heart they bring to supporting families.

We remain committed to supporting our staff with ongoing training and development, so they can continue to grow in confidence and skills. This not only benefits them personally but also strengthens our charity and the families we serve.

As we look ahead, I feel very hopeful. With the strong foundations now in place, I believe the coming year will be even more fruitful. We will continue to build on our successes, nurture our people, and reach even more families with the support they need.

Finally, I want to express our heartfelt thanks to all our funders and supporters. Your belief in us makes everything we do possible, and we are deeply grateful for your continued trust and generosity. Together, we are making a real difference — and together, we look forward to another year of growth, impact, and hope.

Margaret Peet Chair of Trustees

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Manager’s Reflection

This year as Manager of Family Friends has been a privilege and a joy. I have loved stepping into this role, and I feel immensely proud to lead such a dedicated, supportive, Chair’s Foreword and hard-working team. Together, we have continued to strengthen the focus of our work through our clear strategic vision: “Making connections: Building resilience.” This vision has become the lens through which we filter everything we do — striving to bring people with lived experience together in ways that build peer support, reduce isolation, creating lasting networks of resilience for the future.

There have been many highlights along the way. Our team away day on the barge was a chance to rest, recharge, and reconnect, reminding us of the importance of taking time to invest in one another. Our annual volunteer meal was another highlight, celebrating the incredible people who freely give their time to walk alongside families in Wrexham. I am also deeply grateful for the funding successes we’ve seen this year, which have allowed us to breathe more easily in these turbulent economic times.

We are especially thankful to our main funders — Steve Morgan Foundation, Masons, Garfield Weston, Henry Smith, Mother’s Union, Moondance Foundation, Comic Relief, HD Community Fund, Kelly Family Trust, Families First, People’s Postcode Lottery, and Awards for All. Their investment has been vital in enabling us to continue delivering our mission. We are also deeply appreciative of the many other trusts, foundations, and community supporters who have partnered with us this year — every contribution, large or small, helps us make a lasting difference.

Alongside this, we have taken important steps to future-proof the charity. By partnering with the brilliant IT consultancy firm Bits IT Solutions, we now have on-call support every day. Thanks to Comic Relief funding, we have also been able to upgrade our systems and build our very own database. This tool collects real impact data across every element of the charity, giving us deeper insight into who we work with and what is making the biggest difference. We believe this system will strengthen our future bids, as well as enable us to report back to our funders with even greater transparency and detail about our impact.

On a personal level, this year has been challenging in the very best of ways. The demands of the role have stretched me and reminded me of a mantra I’ve carried throughout the year: ‘You are capable of so much more than you think You are’. The steep learning curve of managing this wonderful charity has asked me to dig deep, to grow in skills I never imagined I could master, and to find new confidence in leading. That personal journey has only deepened my passion for our mission — because what I’ve experienced mirrors what we encourage families to discover: that even in the face of life’s hardest challenges, we can dig deep, develop new strengths, and find ways not just to survive, but to thrive.

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Looking Ahead

Moving into the next year, we are excited to deepen our experience and expression of our new strategic vision: “Making Connections: Building Resilience.” This vision is inviting us to explore new ways of working and different approaches, and it has already been an exciting and steep learning curve for all of us. What inspires us most is seeing the relationships that are forming between supported families — friendships that are deepening and providing vital emotional and social support. These connections are already showing real impact, and we believe the true magic will be in their ability to continue long after our direct support has ended.

Alongside this, we have paired our new vision with a fresh rebrand, and we are now ready to update our website and materials with our new logo and strapline. The future feels fresh and full of possibility.

As we step forward, we do so with hope and determination. Family Friends has always been about walking alongside families, helping them discover their own strengths, and building communities of care. With our renewed vision, strong partnerships, and the unwavering dedication of our team, volunteers, trustees, funders, and families, we are confident that the year ahead will bring even more opportunities to make a lasting difference in Wrexham. Together, we will continue to weave connections, strengthen resilience, and help families not just to cope, but to truly thrive.

With deep gratitude for all we have achieved together and excitment for what lies ahead.

Jo Hughes Senior Manager

Treasurer’s Report

The financial year has been one of both change and exciting progress for Family Friends. In May 2024, our three-year grant from the Henry Smith Charity came to an end, but we were fortunate to receive a one-year award from Moondance, while still doing great work through our second 3 year grant still running for Henry Smith, due to run until May 2025.

Our manager, Jo, worked tirelessly throughout the year to secure ongoing and future funding. Thanks to her efforts, we benefitted from a series of one-year grants, as well as smaller awards that allowed us to deliver group work, activities, and events for families. As the year drew to a close, we were delighted to receive the first instalment of a three-year grant from the Masonic Charitable Foundation. Even more encouraging, we received confirmation of two new grants to begin early in the new financial year: a three-year commitment from the Steve Morgan Foundation and a one-year grant from Comic Relief. These represent significant milestones in strengthening our financial base for the years ahead.

In preparing the end-of-year accounts, I have designated a shortfall contingency to protect us against any temporary funding gaps while bids are in progress. These monies have been carefully allocated from fundraising and reserves, with our closure contingency reduced to three months in line with good practice.

Our reserves, held in a charity investment account, generated increased interest in the first half of the year before easing back later; overall, we still earned £70.07 more interest than the previous year. Every additional contribution, however modest, helps us continue to serve families in Wrexham.

I am pleased to present the accounts for the year ending 31st March 2025. The Receipts and Payments Account demonstrates how funds have been used to deliver services, while the Assets and Liabilities statement shows where funds are held and highlights monies designated for specific purposes.

On behalf of the trustees, I extend heartfelt thanks to all our funders, donors, and supporters. Your generosity enables Family Friends to continue providing vital support to families in our community, building resilience and reducing isolation.

Wendy E Williams Treasurer Charity Number 1160655

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FAMILY ThIIND8 (WRBXHAM) RXFERINCK AND ADMINISTIL4TIVZ DrrAlIa FOR THEYIAR Ef4DED 31 MARCH 2033 TBUSTEE8 W Wllll• R Woo4¢ook B Grlfflthl M P••1 Andre• Wliion B DIKkmK• (wIAtsd 21103ll024) PAINCIPAL ADDR8SS Th• S•lTntlOAkny Prnkn Wr¢xhJm LLII INU RIGISTKRID CHAnlTY NUMBKR 1161155 INDBPINDKNT IXAMINER cl￿ Walffllhy Wrnxknm LLII IDY P•pl Page 9

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FAMILY lluENik8 (WRUIIAM) CIIAKrrY Numllbil: 116U6JS THEY￿R 14NDED31￿ MARCH M25 RECEIPTS AF4D PAYMEKTS ACCOUNTS iynT 'I'heiL i¢ciwDls p￿pared on a payThits bisis 2•25 2024 KECEIPTS Statiitory F¥•dihi i•d Slipp4e WLLIC l8injl j¢¥ Ilirsl F,SUL 6rnts :Ind Fundlng ommunily I,'i)undJlion Wales ounduncc Hciii'y Smith l)o¥iui(IL Loiwry l)olice Liiinm15wnLr PullLL. Lulnmijso￿'f 2 MIL%UlW Clraiil MuJi￿1¢ Charliuble Foundhil(In I lufii'ii C.'4Jininunily Fund (yMrli¥ld WLylon Mullioig Union Awnixls for All 21.975.L 44,729,24 23.998.40 10.100,00 23,32IJ.(K) 39,600.00 93,500.IXJ 25.000.00 19,212,00 3.7)5. 10.(KN),( S,IYXI.(k) 9,830.WI 1s,IxJO.(KJ 19.106.tJ) S00.(K) N¥w Com Foundulil)n G'¥iiorat¢d lu&omt ljank & COIF Ch￿1¢Y Fund Int¢￿.1 Fun(IruI&in￿t%)JIu11uI TOTAL R&CEIFrs 3,7J8.71 2.022,99 5.121.89 224.301.34 180.196.19 Ciisis . Q¢(rl¢nding Il¢ni 278.50 11,963.90 2279,32 4,792.61 13J18.91 4.576.46 3J05.37 n2.94 103.97 L956.33 1.667.35 1,071.78 148.044.66 Olli¥¥ Stu¢lun¢ry, pliolo¢opi¢r •nd le1¢￿ LoiiipulLir lind knllwttre liqiiipinenl II¢%L)Iiir 5.911.10 4.674,80 1,716,98 714.00 120,587,79 289,93 21,480.48 988,19 ,943,07 1329).89 Sun(Iry ￿￿p¢fia %e%%iuridl1Pl#yi￿rk I>Lnsion Pdyi'ull Lharge¥ Siull I'rainini Co$lJ 27.090.18 1,964.30 ar1k Chiif8¢J 'I'O'I'AL PA YMENTS 65.46 205,(A7.71 197,911.78 NE"I' OF RECEipfsi IPA YMENTS) 25.450.82 26.389.56 Cw$b lall ywjr e•d 191147.47 165,757.91 C1511 & llaak 4t Jjst March 2025 . 1024 166.696.65 192,147,47 Page11

FAMILY FRIEND5 Registered Charlty Number. 1160655 srATeMENT OF ASSETS & LIABILMES AT 31ST MARQI 2025 2025 2024 CASH FUNDS Petty Cash Bank Deposits COIF Charity Fund Accourt 140.89 87,963.76 78 592.00 76.55 113.478.92 78 592.00 192 147.47 Total Cash Funds LIABILITIES Independent Examiners Fee Owlng March 2024 PAYE 370.00 2,488.66 370.00 1,915.15 2 285.15 MONETARY ASSETS REPRESENTED BY.. 0￿Ignated Funds Stsfl Redundancv Mlnimum Closedown Cost (3 Du￿th5> (2024 4 m￿tIL￿] Independonl Examlners Fee 15,318. 52,382.26 370.Crt) 8,740,00 70,234.98 370.00 Re8trirtod Mon1•• ESOL M￿fidance Foundation P05tcode Communlty FurKI Henry Smlth Charlty Henry Smllh Charity 2 Polfce Commlssloner Cunmunlty Foundatton Familles Firsl Su51aln SeNlce Dellvery A.V.Q.W MAD Grant Awards for All Hafren C.F Garfleld Weston Mason5 Grant Masonlc Charitable FurKI Mothers Llnlon Shortfall Cont￿genCY for 25-26 I,S53,53 5,097.98 14,761.01 23,263.17 20,733,66 23,185.19 9(M).00 5,445,01 10,443.33 22,000.00 8,654.62 11.513.37 6,536.25 8,410.05 13,368.78 5,875.46 5.(m.tXI 17,521.74 Un Restrlrtld Funds Fundralslng arml Bank Interest 346.24 166 555.76 5 278,60 192 147.47 Free Manles 140.89 0.00 The flnancial statements were appfoved by the 8oard of Tntstees on a3 . Ic) . thy Is.......And were signed Its behall by; Mrs M Peet Mrs w winiams Page I

FAMILY FRIENDS (WREXHAM) REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 MARCH 2025

TRUSTEES W Williams R Woodcock B Blackmore B Griffiths

M Peet M Williams A Stevenson PRINCIPAL ADDRESS The Salvation Army Premises Garden Road w Wrexham LL11 2NU REGISTERED CHARITY 1160655 NUMBER

INDEPENDENT EXAMINER Guy Walmsley Limited Chartered Accountants

3 Grove Road

Wrexham

LL11 1DY

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FAMILY FRIENDS

Management Committee 2025/26

Trustees (voting members)

Chairperson Margaret Peet

Vice Chair Mel Williams Treasurer Wendy Williams Secretary Beulah Griffiths

Individual Volunteer members Ruth Woodcock Andrea Stevenson Mayoress Beryl Blackmore

Representation on the Management Committee in an advisory capacity

Prevention & Inclusion Service Julie Williams – Ty Ni Family Centre

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Who have we been working with? (Health and Social Stresses breakdown)

Family Friends works with a wide variety of issues and continues to grow in skills and expertise to meet and alleviate the individual issues our families face. Below is a breakdown of the kinds of health related issues we have worked with this year. As you can see mental health and stress are the biggest stressors that families are facing this year and we have adapted and developed our service to meet these needs by offering more therapeutic modalities, offering more peer support through Pop Up groups and ensuring a good array of positive, relaxing family activities are available all year round.

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Protecting children and supporting families most at risk is something we care passionately about here at Family Friends. Below is a table that breaks down the types of social stresses families we work with have been facing over the last year. As you can see the list is very varied and presents some real challenges to the skills of our committed staff team. We have seen a massive increase in people expressing they are feeling socially or physically isolated which is something our new strategic vision aims to alleviate. These trends are real confirmation that the emphasis on making connections to build stronger social networks is on the right track.

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IMPACT DATA FROM 24/25

What percentage of families improved and in what area as a result of working with us?....

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Managing Being involved Coping with
in children’s physical
Children’s
learning/ health
behaviour
development
82%
100% 100%
Coping with Coping with Improving
mental feeling parent’s self
health isolated esteem
88% 94% 94%
Coping with Coping with
Coping with
Child’s the day to
Child’s
mental day running
physical
health of the home
health
100% 100% 100%
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IMPACT DATA FROM 24/25
Continued...
Improvements Coping with Confidence to
in stress educational access other
caused by issues services
conflict in the
family
100%
79% 83%
Coping with Managing Other - Inc.
Domestic
family household
violence,
Relationships budget substance use
and crime
100% 89% 94%
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This impact data demonstrates clearly the real difference Family Friends is making in the lives of those we support. Out team are skilled, committed and more than that the families we support are amazing - willing to do the work and as a result are seeing positive changes in their lives as a result of thier own bravery!

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A Closer Look at Our Amazing Counselling Service:

Did you know our counselling service has been running for 6 years now?

It all began with a clear mission: to offer person-centred counselling to both adults and children.

What does that mean?

It means we:

And that approach still sits at the heart of everything we do. Growth, Demand & A New Opportunity

As word spread, our 2 amazing counsellors were quickly booked up. The waiting list kept growing — and we knew we had to do something.

So, our lead counsellor trained in clinical supervision and we partnered with universities to offer placements for trainee counsellors.

Now, with student counsellors onboard and strong supervision in place, we’ve been able to really expand what we offer.

However, over time, we came to recognise something important:

While our person-centred roots are powerful, they’re not always enough

We realised we needed more tools in our therapy toolbox.

A Closer Look at Our Amazing Counselling Service Cont..

So What Did We Do?

Our lead counsellor trained in:

🧩 CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) Practical and focused

Helps people recognise and shift unhelpful thoughts and behaviours Great for anxiety, depression, and emotional regulation

🌟 EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)

Sounds fancy — but it’s a powerful therapy for processing trauma

Helps people heal from painful memories (without needing to talk through every detail). This works for adults and children alike

Why This Matters

These new approaches have made a huge difference for the people we support. ✅ A more personalised approach

We match the therapy to the person — not the other way around.

✅ Better trauma support

EMDR helps those who’ve been through abuse, neglect, and life-changing events start to heal.

We no longer have to refer people elsewhere and wait for months — we can help them right here, right now.

CBT and EMDR both have strong evidence behind them, especially for PTSD, anxiety, and childhood trauma.

What’s Next?

We’re always growing, learning, and responding to what our community needs. New Initiative : A Men’s Counselling Service

We’ve seen more and more men reaching out for support — which is fantastic. One-to-one counselling sessions tailored to men’s mental health needs This is just the beginning — and we can’t wait to see where it goes.

We’re proud of how far we’ve come — but even more excited about where we’re heading. Everything we do is about creating a space where people feel: Heard , Supported and Empowered to grow

Thanks for being a part of the journey!

Making a Measurable Difference

At Family Friends, we believe that no parent should feel alone and no child should miss out on the chance to thrive. Every day, we walk alongside families with children aged 0–14, helping them to build resilience, strengthen relationships, and feel connected to their community.

The difference we make is clear:

🌟 Isolation reduced: Parents who once felt cut off now have peer support groups and trusted networks they can lean on. 🌟 Confidence boosted: Families tell us they feel more able to cope, attend meetings with professionals, and advocate for their children.

🌟 Better mental health: Counselling, walk-and-talks, and one-toone support help parents recover from trauma, manage anxiety, and reduce stress. 🌟 Brighter futures for children: With parents supported, children benefit from more stable, resilient home lives — leading to improved attendance and engagement at school. 🌟 Sustainable community support: Our “pop-up” peer-led groups are creating lasting connections that carry on beyond our direct involvement.

Numbers that speak volumes:

181 families supported this year through one-to-one work, groups, and counselling. Dozens of parents moving from crisis to stability — with many going on to study, work, or volunteer.

As one parent told us:

“Family Friends gave me the confidence to believe in myself again. I’m studying for a degree, working at the hospital, and I want to give something back.”

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How many people have we supported?

208 New Referrals OmmD 181 Families Supported OmmD 297 Children Supported Om» 57 Referrals Returned >

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Our reputation is growing

As we have grown over the years we have established ourselves as a reliable service to refer to from other agencies. As testimony to our reputation and successful partnership working in the community as a useful organisation in families’ lives, this year we received referrals from 31 different referring agencies with the top four being:

WFIS-Wrexham Family Information service were first with 28 referrals Statutory Services were a close second with 23 TAC were third place with 20 referrals received

Finding a place in the heart of the community

This year we had 25 as opposed to last years 16 self referrals. This is increasing each year which is showing our new emphasis on building our presence on social media is impacting the reach across Wrexham and giving those not currently supported by any other agency a way in to the right support at the right time.

This demonstrates that the community know who we are, what we do and that we have been approachable and easy to access throughout all the challenges we have faced over the last few years, but it continues to worry us that many families are in need but maybe not engaged with other agencies. The referrals are for a wide range of help.

What have we been doing this year?

Throughout the year we have delivered a wide variety of sessions that cover many issues and offer bespoke support and care to families who need it most. Here is the breakdown of some of the activities/support we have achieved this year:

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Respite Group

We have seen 23 families finding rest, friendship and support in our weekly parent and child respite sessions this year so far.

Steps

We have run three fully booked steps programmes this year. This course really is supporting people to reach their potential by learning how to master their thoughts!

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Counselling

Our counselling service has reached 65 individuals. 30 adults and 35 children. We have invested in our lead counsellor becoming clinical supervisor resulting in being able to run student counsellor placements. - broadening our capacity. We have supported our Lead Counsellor to train in both CBT and EMDR allowing for deeper and more healing offers of support for free to those who need it most.

Wellbeing Group Wellbeing Group has gone from strength to strength this year. Every week they gather to support each other and have fun!

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Freedom

Programme

We have run 3

Freedom Programmes, creating a safe space for women to make sense of domestic abuse, build support networks with other survivors and rebuild their lives.

Walk and Talk ~~—_—~~ The whole family, volunteers, staff and supported families have been enjoying monthly walks out in the country side. This is helping to form new friendships, increase health and positively impact wellbeing.

:

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- - 1 2 1 Support

We still have 1-2-1 family support as a core service. Our team are skilled and compassionate. Families have described this support as a Life Line’ in thier time of need.

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This is what some of our supported families have said about us at the end of their support:

Everyone made me feel welcome and it meant a lot!

Other members in the group made me feel a part of it all - I realised I wasn’t facing problems alone.

I was sad when the group finished because I had learnt so much and was thirsty for more

Family Friends gives me a lot of security and hope and I am much happier in myself

The support means so much - knowing there are some people I can go to without feeling judged is amazing.

Family Friends gives me a much better outlook on life - I was a recluse! I’ve made friends through attending the groups!

Family Friends builds people up again.

Family Friends made me feel I wasn’t alone and others were or had felt the same things I was feeling. The groups made me feel safe

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At last year’s AGM we launched our new Strategic Vision: Making Connections, Building Resilience.

Part of this vision was introducing Pop-Up Groups — flexible, peer-support sessions that connect families with others who share similar experiences. The aim? To build real, lasting networks of support beyond professional intervention.

This past year we piloted the approach and have already seen remarkable results for families in Wrexham. In the next section, you’ll hear from both professionals and participants about the difference it’s making.

Reflection on the impact, challenges and opportunities of the new Pop-Up strategy

Over the past year, we have introduced the idea of pop-up groups, a hybrid of 1-1 and peer focused support. We saw the opportunity to bring together families in very similar situations, searching for a similar type of support – and so two groups were created focusing on an overwhelmingly prevalent topic that we see in referrals – challenging behaviour in children.

Initially the first group was going to be focused on ADHD, but it became apparent upon speaking with referred families that the group would benefit supporting those experiencing various types of challenging behaviour – from additional needs to environmental circumstances to trauma-based behaviours. But the key difference with this pop up was that it was not just about the child’s behaviour which is so regularly focused on, but the enormous mental impact of the parents and carers trying to live through the challenges day to day.

The Pop-Ups combine the benefits of group support and 1-1 family support work. Although the supported families attend a ‘group’, they also have a dedicated family support worker whilst they attend. This means that while the families will get most of their support from peers, their family support worker is there if they should need extra support. Through this approach over the last year, we have seen that families may take up the offer of the extra support in times of real need and turn to peers in group sessions for most of the support.

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Pop Up Cont...

Of course, along this new road we have come across challenges along the way. We have been working on the right structure in how pop ups are created, set up and run. We have used pilot groups to experiment with group length and content. We have recognised that some factors such as distance and anxiety can impact on engagement, and we are working through feedback with current attendees to try and find a way to support these. Have a read of what the families have said about the pilot Pop Ups this year: AN MY, What do you feel are the differences How would you rate the between peer support in a pop-up environment for your popgroup vs. 1-1 family support? up group? “I want to hear other people who = “So comfy and makes you are in a similar situation to me, so feel like you are in that’s why the peer support helps. ” someone’s home.

Pop Ups this year: AN What do you feel are the differences between peer support in a pop-up group vs. 1-1 family support? “I want to hear other people who are in a similar situation to me, so that’s why the peer support helps. It’s good to share problems, issues thoughts and feelings.”

How would you describe the group to someone new who is thinking of attending but might be nervous? “Just do it, it’s a safe space, supportive and caring.”

What do you feel are the drawbacks of a pop-up group?

“Not long enough, I wish it could go on forever.”

What impact do you feel the group has had on you? “I feel like I have people who understand me and experience the same issues as me. I feel supported.”

Did you feel that you were able to open up and share any personal experiences within the group? Did you feel supported by the group to do so?

“I made great friends, and they supported me through everything.”

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A day in the life of a

Nicola was feeling very depressed, things were very stressful at home due to a court case with her ex-partner. She experienced emotional abuse which manifested into an abundance of negative self-talk. The words of her ex-partner allowed her to believe that she was not a good mum, and she found it hard to see the good in anything.

Her son’s challenging behaviour escalated due to the breakup with dad. The stress of the situation made his behaviour worse.

Nicola decided to take the brave first step of contacting Wrexham family information service in search of support. She realised that she had lost a sense of who she was. Her support at Family Friends started with the Freedom programme which she found very eye opening. A turning point was being brave enough to come to the first session; she decided that she needed to be brave and do something positive.

Over the last 9 months Nicola has been part of the challenging behaviour pop up group. In her own words:

“I love the pop-up group; it’s just an amazing idea! Everyone’s in the same boat, everyone’s lives are different, but it makes you feel not alone.

“You can share information with likeminded people; you can vent and get it out. It’s like therapy! Let’s you speak freely and there is no judgement.”

Family friends’ services have had a great impact on Nicola. Her big win is that her self-confidence has gone up, allowing her to take what her expartner says with a ‘pinch of salt’.

“I feel confident, and I feel happier. I feel calmer and not angry inside.”

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Walking out of Horror and into Hope!.

Background

L. was referred to Family Friends after multiple concerns were raised about her child’s hospital attendances. She lived alone with her daughter in temporary accommodation and faced significant challenges, including:

Intervention

Family Friends provided one-to-one support, walk-and-talk sessions, and counselling. Her support worker attended key meetings, helping L. to feel empowered and confident when working with professionals. This approach ensured her voice was heard and led to her child being removed from the Child Protection Register.

Outcomes

Through Family Friends’ support, L. achieved significant milestones:

In L.’s Own Words

"My support worker believed I could do it. She has been my network of support to me and my daughter, helping me in meetings and encouraging me every step of the way."

Impact

L.’s story demonstrates how Family Friends helps families to reduce isolation, improve confidence and mental health, and build brighter futures.

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One of the most amazing parts of the service here at Family Friends is hearing the stories of transformation from the families that we support. It’s why we do what we do. The following are stories from some of the families we have supported this year.

Rebuilding Confidence Through Family Support

Adele -aged 35

Background:

This client came to the service during a particularly low point in her life. She was experiencing poor mental health linked to unresolved childhood trauma, a recent relationship breakdown, and the inability to maintain daily routines or her housing conditions. She felt completely isolated from her family and friends and was struggling to manage her children’s behaviour. At the time, her children were receiving support through the CASP social services pathway.

Presenting Needs:

Poor mental health and emotional wellbeing Overwhelming housing conditions Parenting challenges Social isolation Children on a social care plan

Support Accessed:

The client accessed one-to-one family support, with a core focus on housing stability, mental health and wellbeing, parenting, and re-engagement with the community. The support also included help attending appointments and taking practical steps to improve daily life.

Read on to find out what happened!!

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Rebuilding Confidence Through Family Support Cont...

Key Moments in the Journey:

One of the pivotal moments was the temporary move to a different property while her council home was being repaired. This change provided both a physical and emotional reset. She described the move as a turning point, giving her the opportunity to "declutter her belongings but also her mind," and realise she had been holding onto things that had no real value but were making her feel more overwhelmed.

Throughout the intervention, the support worker provided a non-judgemental, compassionate presence. The client said this made all the difference and helped her begin to “open her eyes to her surroundings” and see her own potential.

Outcomes:

Improved self-awareness and ability to recognise early signs of mental health decline Developed healthy coping strategies (e.g. getting outside, walking the dog) Increased confidence and self-esteem

Greater emotional resilience in managing trauma and parenting challenges Reconnected with family and friends

Joined a local peer support group to build a lasting support network

Client Reflections:

“The service has made me feel like I am no longer alone. I am in a better place mentally, and my self-esteem has improved. I can now notice when my mental health starts to dip, and I use strategies to stop myself spiralling—whereas before I would lock myself in the house and internalise everything. Although I still revisit my past trauma and my child still displays challenging behaviours, I am able to cope much better than I was before.”

“One of the main things for me was that there was no judgement at all. My support worker helped me to realise my own potential. I’ve now reached out to family and friends again, and I’ve joined a peer support group in the hope of building a stronger network. I feel more confident as a parent and more able to look at things in a different way.”

Impact:

This case highlights how personalised, non-judgemental family support can create long-term change by empowering individuals to rebuild their confidence, manage their mental health, and strengthen their relationships both at home and in the wider community.

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PaL MEN9S GROUP 68ECAUSE MATES MATTER9 th Starting 30 August, then last Saturday of every month. Light breakfast and good company provided. Come as you are- no pressure, no prep. This is a casual space for men to gather, chat, reflect and share whatever's on thier mind. Whether it's current events, life stuff or just the best way to make toast! Every voice is welcome. Please get in touch for venue detaxls and to book your place on kay@family-friends.co.ulL Tel 07985 270014 www.family-friends.co.uk FAMILYFRIENDS Page 35

We have a fabulous team of volunteers!!

Each of our volunteers brings their own unique talents, experiences, and insights, making Family Friends’ services richer and more impactful. They represent a wonderful cross-section of the community—spanning all ages and backgrounds, including retired teachers, business owners, and parents eager to make a difference. And perhaps most inspiring are those volunteers who were once recipients of our support. To see individuals who have personally benefited from Family Friends now stepping forward to give back is a powerful reminder of the lasting impact our services can have.

However, the need continues to grow. Our waiting list of families urgently seeking support is ever-increasing. We would love for you to consider joining us and bringing your own strengths to our team. With guidance from a caring and experienced volunteer coordinator, you’ll find a rewarding place here to make a real difference. If you’d like to begin a meaningful new chapter in the new year, please reach out to join our free training course!

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HAZELS VOLUNTEER STORY

September 2025 and, as I look back on 8 years of volunteering with Family Friends, I still feel that strong sense of excitement and self-worth that has always been part of my journey with them.

In October 2017 I was pleased to receive my Certificate from Family Friends showing that I had completed the Preparation Course for Volunteers. However, when I made the decision to apply to join the course, I had no idea and could not have envisaged all the fun, laughter, learning, knowledge, sharing, empathy, self-worth, respect and friendships that would grow both during and after the course. I was initially introduced to Family Friends by a friend who often talked about how she enjoyed volunteering with Family Friends and suggested I might enjoy it too. As volunteers, without, of course, divulging confidential information, it is good to share our stories of all the different ways we can help others and grow ourselves. Within FF, Kay has created a brilliant opportunity, through monthly Volunteer Coffee Mornings, to regularly share our stories with each other or sometimes have professional speakers thus extending our knowledge, giving us support and building confidence and friendship between volunteers.

However, no matter how much training and knowledge we acquire, I can remember that feeling of “nervous anticipation” the first time I drove to my family I was going to support. But, from the training I had done and the ongoing support and encouragement I was receiving from FF, there was also a great sense of excitement and assurance that FF believed in me. Whilst helping and supporting my family I found that I personally grew in my own empathy, understanding and experience of what makes family life for others and how, by listening and talking together, as well as being of practical help, a very special relationship develops.

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Cont... ...

I have also enjoyed helping with homework club, Fun Club, Holiday Club, Christmas Parties, Event Days – the list of how FF supports families is constantly growing and evolving through evaluating and addressing families current needs. I find FF amazing in their adaptable ability to provide all this support in such a loving, caring, professional network of staff, volunteers and supported families. It is testimony to their success that members of supported families have gone on to become volunteers themselves.

I am a retired primary school teacher and, along with my husband, Mike, enjoy a busy, active lifestyle. FF is very much a part of this, where staff and volunteers often get together to share new learning, social events or fun days out together. I remember even during lockdown Volunteers felt encouraged, valued and connected, sharing online courses, zooming or quizzing together. We all have skills to share and I felt mine as a retired primary teacher really helped when I supported Asylum seeker families with learning our language. Helping these families to become familiar with our culture, to access various services in Wrexham, find school or nursery places for their children, fill in various forms etc., attend appointments, whilst enjoying hearing about their experiences, was very special for me and also for Mike as I could draw on his personal experience and knowledge of different cultural expectations and experiences.

I decided earlier this year to semi-retire as a “family visiting” volunteer but did tell my wonderful Volunteer Support Worker, Kay, that I would be more than happy to help out with other aspects of FF. There has now been two new FF ventures for me – one has been talking to Kay about setting up a Men’s Group and the second has been helping Kay run a new Volunteers’ Preparation Course. I was delighted when I spoke to a friend of mine, who has experience of running Men’s Groups, and he met up with Jo and Kay and this new Group is now up and running. And, Volunteer’s Prep Course – what a privilege. I started eight years ago being one of those new volunteers and now, full circle, have the pleasure of helping Kay to train new volunteers and, from week to week, watching them grow in their understanding of how this great Organisation can support the positive development of both families and themselves.

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LADF VOLUNTEER WITH US JVIN TME TÈAM Family Friends has been Supporting families in crisis for over 25 years in Wrexham. We will match your skills to your role so you to can join in making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. We offer free Training, first aid and lots of fun social activities throughout the year! "No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted" Please get in touch if you want to find new friends and make a big difference in your local community Call: 07985270014 Or email: kay.familyfriends@gmail.com www.family-friends.co.uk FAMILYFRIENDS e39

MEET THE TEAM

Meet Beth – Our extraordinary Finance and Admin Assistant!

I’m Beth, 26, and you’ll usually find me immersed in spreadsheets, databases, or answering I.T. questions— often in a colour-coordinated outfit. It’s my first role like this, but I’ve proudly become a spreadsheet nerd, loving how I can support Family Friends’ amazing work. Outside work, I enjoy family time, walking, cooking, music, and caring for my cat, Pingu. Every day here is different, exciting, and a privilege alongside such generous, caring colleagues.

Meet Lisa – Our Wonderful Clinical Counsellor!

With 12+ years at Family Friends, I’m Lead Counsellor and Clinical Supervisor, specialising in CBT and newly qualified in EMDR. I’m passionate about providing free counselling for children and adults. A lifelong learner and proud mum of three, I’m often found outdoors—or with my cardigan fastened wrong!

Meet Vicky – Our Wonderful Family Support Worker!

With degrees in Psychology and Counselling, Vicky combines academic knowledge with personal experience to offer compassionate support. She began as a volunteer, drawn to Family Friends’ ethos, and now helps families from diverse backgrounds. Creative at heart, she loves art, music, and new experiences, bringing warmth, empathy, and colour to our team.

Meet Kay – Our Passionate Volunteer Coordinator & Family Support Worker!

A former Detective with North Wales Police, Kay brings expertise in safeguarding, crisis management, and leadership. She supports volunteers with training and guidance while helping families build resilience. Known for her humour and dedication, Kay also organises community events, secures funding, and ensures Family Friends provides safe, supportive, and impactful services.

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MEET THE TEAM

Meet Sarah – Domestic Abuse Lead Support Worker

I’m proud to support families through running courses for women survivors of domestic abuse. I’m also an NVQ assessor, EFT practitioner, and Reiki Master. Outside work, I enjoy the gym, my dog, my two children, and karaoke! With my sparky ADHD flair, I thrive in Family Friends’ supportive, fun team, where we share the goal of helping as many families as possible.

Meet Laura – Lead Family Support Worker

My passion for supporting families began during my English degree, leading me to complete a Master’s in Psychology. I’ve since worked as a Family Support Worker, Nursery Practitioner, and Mental Health Rehabilitation Worker. At Family Friends, I love the variety each day brings. Outside work, I enjoy walks, reading, and time with my husband and two young sons.

Meet Tanith – Our Fabulous Family Support Worker!

With a BA (Hons) in Working with Children and their Families, Tanith has dedicated her career to supporting children, young people, and adults with additional needs. She’s also a proud mum of four boys and dog mum to Rocco. Passionate, grounded, and full of humour, Tanith brings warmth and heart to everything she does at Family Friends.

Meet Our Incredible Manager – Jo Hughes!

A qualified teacher, life coach, and author, Jo has over 25 years in the social care sector. From teaching English and fostering to managing services with the British Red Cross, her journey reflects dedication to helping others thrive. Now leading Family Friends, Jo brings passion, humour, and heart. Outside work, she enjoys walking, nature, and even chatting with her plants!

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All that remains to be said is a massive thank you to everyone who has played a part in making this year so successful.

Firstly thank you to the Trustees for guiding and supporting the organisation through a time of change with real wisdom and care.

Thank you to our funders for the essential support you offer to help us sustain the desperately needed service here in the heart of Wrexham.

Thank you to each and every volunteer for the hard work you do every week supporting people in crisis. You constantly amaze us with your compassion and care.

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Thank you to our Incredible team!

To the Family Friends team – you are truly remarkable. Your kindness, resilience and determination shine through in everything you do. Every day, you bring hope, encouragement and compassion to the families we support, and you do it with such generosity of spirit. You go above and beyond, not only for the people of Wrexham, but also for each other, creating a place where care and connection thrive.

Your dedication is the reason Family Friends continues to grow and touch lives in such a meaningful way. Please remember – the impact you make is bigger than you’ll ever know.

– "It’s not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving." Mother Teresa

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