Families of disabled children across Wales can access vital help through Contact Cymru, a charity dedicated to supporting parents and carers. From emotional advice to financial guidance and community connections, Contact Cymru’s support for families with disabled children makes a real difference every day. At Piws, we’re proud to share this valuable resource that helps families feel more connected, confident, and supported.
Listening Ear – One-to-One Support for Parents
Parents can book a free, confidential chat with Sophie, Contact’s Wales Parent Adviser, to talk about practical or emotional issues. The Listening Ear service is designed to give parents space to share concerns and get tailored advice. Appointments can be booked online at https://contact.org.uk/cymru/building-resilience/. If local appointments are full, families can access the UK-wide Listening Ear service at https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/listening-ear/.
Local Information and Community Connections
Contact’s Information Officer, Zoe Bowen, helps families find local support groups, community activities, and organisations that can offer further help. To get in touch, email Zoe directly at Zoe.Bowen@contact.org.uk. Families can also stay up to date with events and information by subscribing to the bilingual Contact Cymru e-bulletin.
Claiming With Confidence – Conwy and Gwynedd
Parent carers living in Conwy or Gwynedd can now access free, confidential one-to-one appointments with a Contact Benefits and Finance Adviser. The Claiming With Confidence service provides tailored advice on managing money, understanding benefits, and finding financial support. To learn more or book an appointment, visit https://contact.org.uk/cymru/claiming-with-confidence.
Free Guides and Publications
Contact offers a comprehensive library of free guides, factsheets, and practical resources for families of disabled children. These cover topics such as benefits, education, health, and wellbeing. Explore the full range at https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/information-advice-services/other-ways-to-get-advice/resources/.
Contact Helpline
For general information or immediate advice, families can call Contact’s free helpline on 0808 808 3555, available Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 5:00pm. The helpline is free to call from UK landlines and mobiles. More information is available at https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/information-advice-services/other-ways-to-get-advice/our-helpline/.
Fledglings – Adaptive Equipment Shop
Contact also runs Fledglings, a not-for-profit online shop offering adaptive clothing, sensory aids, specialist bedding, and other useful products designed to make daily life easier for families. Visit the store at https://www.fledglings.org.uk/.
Support for Practitioners
Professionals working with families of disabled children can access specialist tools, training, and resources through Contact’s Practitioner Hub. This platform helps practitioners strengthen their knowledge and improve the support they provide. Learn more at https://contact.org.uk/practitioners/.
Family Workshops and Events
Contact Cymru hosts a range of free online workshops and events covering topics such as benefits advice, emotional wellbeing, and practical family support. Sessions are updated regularly and open to families across the UK. Find the latest workshops at https://contact.org.uk/help-for-families/workshops-and-events/.
Working Together for Families
Contact’s mission is to support families, bring families together, and help families take action for others. Their work continues to make a meaningful impact on the lives of thousands of parents and carers across Wales.
To learn more about Contact Cymru’s support for families with disabled children, visit www.contact.org.uk.
