“We didn’t know where to turn – now we’re finding our way again”
When our family was referred to Exeter Community Initiatives, we were in crisis. Our son Daniel had witnessed a violent attack on his stepdad in public, a traumatic event that left him anxious and withdrawn. His older sister Demi was also struggling — tensions at home were rising, and none of us really knew how to cope.
We felt lost.
From the beginning, ECI didn’t just support us — they saw us. A family assessment helped us realise how much we were all carrying. They offered each of us tailored support, without judgment.
As a mum, I (Diane) learned parenting techniques like co-regulation and de-escalation, which helped me feel less overwhelmed and more connected to my children. I was referred for counselling and had regular check-ins with a Family Support Worker who truly listened, especially during the emotional time when Dave and I separated. They didn’t step away — they stepped up, making sure the children had stability through it all.
Daniel had school-based sessions with “Hear my Voice” where he could play and just be a child again. His favourite game, Go Fish, became a safe way for him to open up about feelings. Demi had tools and space to talk about her fears and feel properly heard for the first time in a long while.
Over time, things changed in a way I didn’t think possible.
“We talk more now, about how we feel. Both kids understand what’s in their control, and what isn’t.” – Diane, Mum
“I sleep in my own room now. I’ve been eating more, and I’m a lot more confident.” – Daniel
“You weren’t biased or stern — you listened like a friend. That made all the difference.” – Demi
We’re still on the journey, but we’re stronger. Thanks to ECI, we’ve gone from surviving to rebuilding — together.
To find out more about our Family Resource Project here.