This week, we’d like to help a 9 year old boy called Travis and his mum, Nicole.
For years, Nicole lived with a partner who controlled and abused her. She miscarried twice because of the violence. Even after he was convicted of domestic abuse and given a restraining order, he kept trying to contact her and threatened to kill her. He’s in prison now, but it’s hard for her to ever feel truly safe.
She finds it hard to speak sometimes, because for so long he controlled what she could say. So she often stutters and loses confidence mid-sentence. She’s scared to leave the house unless she’s with someone she trusts, and always feels like she’s being watched.
She struggles with flashbacks and nightmares, and she’s constantly exhausted. Her mind and body never really get a rest. Some days she struggles to get out of bed or do simple things. She forgets to eat or drink because her anxiety takes over. Other days she’s so tired and low that she can barely keep going, but she still does, for Travis.
Travis is autistic, and routine and calm are really important for him. He’s had severe ongoing skin infections, which are painful and need lots of care.
Nicole and Travis have just moved into a flat but their bedrooms have bare concrete floors and very little else. We’d love to create new bedrooms for both of them, to give them a space where they feel safe and comfortable. They need carpet, beds, bedding and wardrobes. Travis in particular would really benefit from some sensory toys and lighting.
They’ve been through so much trauma and a little bit of kindness will make a huge difference for both of them.
*Name has been changed
