What is Platfform for families?

Platfform for Families is a programme of support for parents of a child facing mental health challenges in Cardiff or the Vale of Glamorgan.

We all want the best for our children and when they are hurting it causes pain, fear and a feeling of helplessness. Supporting a child with mental health challenges can take its toll on family life raising levels of stress, anxiety, and feelings of isolation. This project offers a safe space for parents and siblings to meet, chat and find the support they need.

What can help?

We provide opportunities for parents to share experiences and connect with others who are facing similar challenges. Connecting with others helps to build a sense of belonging and listening and talking to each other creates a natural network of support with people who understand.

What do the groups and one-to-one sessions focus on?

We offer group and one-to-one sessions to develop personal resilience and strategies to help maintain wellbeing. The better we feel about ourselves, the more present we can be in our lives; this alone will increase the overall sense of wellbeing in the family unit surrounding the child.

Learning to navigate life situations by making links, building knowledge, and gaining understanding.

We only know what we know. When we are feeling centred and calm we are better placed to seek and access the support we need. Platfform for Families offers ongoing online support through its online community that will help you to maintain a connection to the project, the peers you have met and information to help you navigate everyday life.

How does the programme work?

For parents and carers there is a six-week engagement programme including one-to-one support sessions and six weekly sessions in a group setting. These focus on sharing experiences and exploring strategies to strengthen sense of self, building resilience and self-regulation with the option for ongoing support in an online group.

Groups for parents/guardians and siblings are organised separately and will be hosted both online via Zoom and face to face when possible.

Who can get support?

Parents based in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.
Please complete the self-referral form here.

How can I find out more?

Contact  Nicole Moran on 07436 038545 or 01656 647722
Email: families@platfform.org
Referrals: self-referrals can be made using this form.