This week, we’d like to help a single mum called Katrina and her two children (aged 4 and 13), who are  traumatised and in need of support.

Katrina is about to have surgery, her 4 year old has cystic fibrosis and autism and her 13 year old has been diagnosed with OCD and severe anxiety (he has very little confidence and has been self-harming).

They fled hundreds of miles to escape severe domestic abuse, with nothing but the clothes they were wearing. They have been staying in a run-down B&B, which was awful. There had little privacy and there was a lot of anti-social behaviour and drug use from other residents. It frightened the children and was really difficult for Katrina, who was trying to balance keeping her children safe while avoiding conflict.

The good news is they have just been offered their own council property. But they have absolutely nothing. They were nominated by their social worker who said they haven’t been receiving the benefits they’re entitled to, as it’s taking time to apply and process, so they have been relying on foodbanks for their meals. She said “They are a positive family and grateful for everything and anything – they ask for nothing but to be safe and happy. They are looking forward to living a normal family life.”

Their social worker has managed to source some white goods and beds, but they have no flooring and nothing else in the property. We’d like to provide the other things they need.