Sarah lives in Aberdeen, Scotland with her sixteen-year-old son, Percy.
Sarah says, “Percy was diagnosed as autistic with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) when he was seven years old. Life has been difficult for Percy, especially during his younger years. He was on ADHD medication for five years up until the age of 12 because he struggled with concentration, meltdowns, and being around peers. Percy was never disruptive at school but rather he would hold it all in until he got home and then explode. So, I often had to deal with the fallout from that.
“Since Percy started high school, they tried to help him the best that they could, but he struggled. It was difficult to get him into school and stay there. Then Covid-19 happened and his education was disrupted even further.
“I’ve been Percy’s full-time carer for a few years now. Before then, I was working and studying to become a nurse. I had to give that up because Percy wasn’t coping or going to school. Thankfully, Percy now attends college which has been amazing for him. It also means that I get some time to myself. Although unfortunately my mental health isn’t good either. When I’m having bad days, so does Percy, and vice versa.”
Take a Break Scotland grants
“When we found out about Take a Break Scotland, I was able to take us away from our daily lives and have a breather.
“We took a trip to Edinburgh for a couple of days, stayed in a hotel, and visited the zoo and museum. The second time I received funding, we used it for a break away to London. It was a brilliant. Percy absolutely loved it! Usually, he doesn’t like crowds and noises, but we had a great time.
“To have the financial support that Take a Break Scotland provides goes a long way, especially as a single parent who must budget every month. The trips got us both away from our daily worries. It made a big impact on me because I felt less stressed.”
