There are further hardships to come

WE’VE all felt the impact of the costof-living crisis in recent months, so Barnardo’s Cymru is particularly grateful that so many of you have continued to support our work at this difficult time, despite your own challenges.

I’d like to thank all our supporters, whether you have donated to one of our special appeals, volunteered with us, or helped one of our stores by donating goods or shopping there.

For many of the families Barnardo’s Cymru supports, the past couple of years have been very tough. Families living in poverty, those with disabilities, care leavers and those at risk of exploitation and abuse were among those hit hardest by the pandemic.

The cost-of-living crisis means there are further hardships to come. As the UK’s leading children’s charity Barnardo’s is responding to the growing need, providing food and heating vouchers for families in need this winter.

We are seeing increasing demand for our services, such as children’s mental health support, and many of those arriving at our services have more acute needs than ever before.

But balanced against that is the way our supporters have responded so magnificently, with volunteers giving generously of their time and donors continuing to give, even when we all face financial uncertainties.

I find it both humbling and inspiring. Best of all it means our amazing workers across Wales can continue to help change the lives of children, young people and families for the better.

On behalf of every one of them, thank you, we couldn’t do it without you.

Sarah Crawley Director Barnardo’s Cymru