As part of our ongoing collaboration with Three Nines Children’s Charity through the Working Together for Brighter Tomorrows campaign, we recently supported a family to take a much-needed respite break -one that offered more than just time away. It offered breathing room, hope, and the chance to begin rebuilding after an incredibly difficult year.
Thanks to our partnership, this family – two children aged 6 and 13, their mum, and a close relative, spent a few peaceful days at one of our coastal holiday homes, designed to be a comforting home-from-home for families who need space to rest, reset and reconnect.
To make the break even more special, Three Nines generously gifted toys and theatre tickets to see The Wizard of Oz this Christmas. These thoughtful extras helped spark joy and excitement, moments often missing when families are navigating trauma.
A Chance to Simply Be
For this family, it had been a year filled with hardship and emotional strain. Their time away became a turning point – an opportunity to slow down, laugh, talk, and rebuild confidence.
They spent time exploring the beach, pumpkin picking, and visiting a local farm to meet animals – activities filled with simple joy, curiosity, and togetherness. Even the rain couldn’t dampen their experience.
The break was especially meaningful for the youngest child, who is autistic. The calm environment allowed her to relax comfortably at her own pace – a vital part of supporting her emotional wellbeing.
Her mum shared:
“From what has been the most awful year in my forty years, some amazing memories were created with my children. It was a much-needed escape in what has been an extremely difficult time, and we were so grateful.”
One moment that brought laughter was feeding seagulls, followed by the gentle realisation that maybe it wasn’t the best idea! These light-hearted memories are the ones that last.
Confidence, Connection, and Hope
With the support of her sister during the trip, mum shared that she now feels more confident in her ability to take the children away in the future – something she didn’t feel able to do before.
“Thank you so much for restoring smiles and happiness for us – it will never be forgotten.”
This is why respite breaks matter. They aren’t holidays, they’re lifelines.
Partnership Making Real Impact
Anne Campbell Gunn, CEO of Three Nines Children’s Charity, reflected:
“What may seem like a short break to some can be utterly transformative for families living with the impact of trauma. This time away allowed them not just to rest, but to rediscover moments of joy and connection.”
At The Principle Trust, we echo that deeply. Every break represents hope. Every memory helps rewrite a child’s story.
This family’s experience is one of many and together with partners like the Three Nines, we want to ensure it’s not the last.
Help Us Create More Brighter Tomorrows
As part of our shared mission, we’re continuing to support families who deserve time, space, and compassion while navigating challenges no child should face.
If you’d like to support families like this one, you can donate below.
Every contribution helps fund respite breaks that change lives – one family, one memory, one moment at a time.
Thank you to the Three Nines Children’s Charity, and to our supporters, Patrons and volunteers who help make experiences like this possible. Together, we’re creating brighter tomorrows.
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