Why Holding Space Exists

When my daughter started struggling with her mental health, our world was turned upside down. I didn’t know what to do or how to support her. I felt completely alone and had nobody I could talk to who truly understood what we were going through.

My first instinct was to reach out for help - school, the GP, CAMHS, private therapists - hoping someone would be able to support us.

But what I was met with was closed door after closed door.

I was told they couldn’t help. I was told this was a “relationship breakdown.” I was even told to go on a parenting course!

At a time when I already felt like I had failed my daughter, those experiences only deepened the guilt and isolation I was carrying.

I was the parent. I was meant to protect her, make her feel safe, happy and loved. Instead, I watched her slowly withdraw from the world around her.

It was heartbreaking.

In 2019, I set up a Facebook page hoping to find just one other parent I could talk to; someone who understood.

What followed was humbling.

Parents began reaching out, sharing their stories, fears and experiences. For the first time I realised I wasn’t alone.

And that was how Holding Space was born.

Holding Space was created to be a safe space for parents and carers. Somewhere they could feel heard, understood and supported without judgement.

It was important to me that the voice of the parent was heard, because parents know their children better than anyone.

Everything we do at Holding Space is rooted in lived experience. We walk alongside parents and carers to ensure they feel supported, empowered and listened to throughout their journey.

What I have learned is that parenting a child with mental health struggles is not about “fixing” everything.

It does not mean you are a bad parent.

It does not mean you got it wrong.

There is no bible for parenting. We do the best we can with the knowledge, skills and capacity we have at the time.

Because when parents and carers are supported, children and young people thrive.

I wish Holding Space existed when I needed it.