Ulster Unionist Party Assembly Member for Mid-Ulster, Sandra Overend, has praised the work of the Family Fund, saying the work they do to help and support the physical, mental and financial well being of families of sick and disabled children makes a real difference.

Sandra said,

“On Thursday 19 September I attended the launch of the “Tired all the Time” Report, by the Family Fund, in the Long Gallery, Stormont. The report details the emotional and physical challenges of sleep deprivation faced by families raising a disabled or seriously ill child.

“Sleep issues are not a new phenomenon for families of disabled, or seriously ill children. Many people will relate to long sleepless nights and waking up at sporadic hours to care for crying newborns. For many families of disabled children, those sleepless nights continue on relentlessly for years, and sometimes into adulthood. However, it is an area that is rarely spoken about in public, or addressed as the serious issue that it clearly is.

“The Family Fund has supported thousands of families, providing grants to help families cope with the difficulties in managing sleepless nights. In the past they have provided beds, bedding, sleep monitors, black-out blinds and sensory toys to help families gain a better night’s sleep.”

Mrs Overend, who is the Ulster Unionist Party Spokesperson for Children and Young People, continued,

“For forty years the Family Fund has provided essential assistance for families of disabled and seriously ill children throughout the UK. They work first hand with families and deal with the physical, mental and financial challenges that parents and carers face every day. As well as helping families secure a good night’s sleep, they provide grants that will make a real difference to the lives of those families, including washing machines, beds, clothing, computers and support with hospital visiting costs.

“I have supported constituents making their application to the Family Fund for something that may sound simple or basic, but which made a real and lasting difference to the lives of the family members. I have seen the results of the work of the Family Fund, and commend them on their work.

“If anyone is interested in applying to the Family Fund please contact my office at 1 High Street Moneymore on 02886748090, and we will help you find and fill out the relevant forms.”