Challenge (Before)
In March 2025, two Ukrainian families with six children (three children in each family) were invited to take part in a Castle Trip. The families are relatives who moved to Cardiff after the start of the war in Ukraine.
The children felt socially isolated, as they had previously very active lives in Ukraine. The parents were also concerned about their children’s English language level and shyness, which limited their participation in community activities.
Intervention (Action)
Using active listening techniques, the staff member spoke with the parents and the children to identify their needs and interests.
The children’s ages varied:
- Family A: two boys aged 7 and 15, and a 12-year-old girl.
- Family B: two girls aged 10 and 8, and a 6-year-old boy.
Within the following two weeks, the parents were included to the Project WhatsApp group, where information about PLTP and partner organisations’ events was regularly shared, and also received direct private messages suggesting age-appropriate activities that could interest her children.
The girls from Family B began attending English classes. While they were studying, their younger brother was engaged in colouring activities and playing with toys.
Family A temporarily stopped participating in activities. It later became clear that the mother did not have time to check WhatsApp messages regularly. This highlighted the need for direct private messages and alternative methods of communication.
Over the summer, the children participated in a range of activities, including Family Saturdays at the National Museum, cooking and coding sessions with Technocamps, soft play sessions at Parc Play, and the Museum After Dark event.
The girls, particularly the 12-year-old from Family A, showed a strong interest in board games and became active participants in these sessions. She also brought her cousin from Family B and encouraged her to join in playing the games.
Results (After)
The children appear more active and engaged in community activities. Their spoken English has improved significantly, and they have formed friendships with other PLTP participants. They smile more often, and their confidence has steadily increased.
The parents’ awareness of available community spaces and opportunities has also grown. They support one another in ensuring that the children attend activities.
The staff were asked to continue sharing information and inviting the families to various events, as this engagement is considered important for the children’s mental health and overall development.
