Hazelwood ARC Limited

🌿 Introducing Hazelwood Holding Space

Over the past seven months, I have been away from work caring full-time for my own daughter, who has been out of school due to her mental health and Emotionally Based School Avoidance (EBSA). She is now preparing to begin Alternative Provision in September.

During this time, I’ve experienced first-hand just how lonely this journey can be.

Life seems to stop. Days become filled with appointments, referrals, waiting lists and advocating for your child, whilst the rest of the world carries on around you. You watch your child struggle, desperately wanting to help, yet often feeling powerless while waiting for support.

It has, without doubt, been the most isolating experience of my life.

Another member of the Hazelwood team is navigating a very similar journey with their own child, and together we’ve recognised just how many families are experiencing these challenges behind closed doors.

That is why we have created Hazelwood Holding Space.

Hazelwood Holding Space is a new initiative offering a safe, supportive and non-judgemental space for parents and carers of children experiencing emotional wellbeing difficulties, neurodivergence, school attendance challenges, EBSA or mental health struggles.

Sometimes you don’t need someone to have all the answers.

Sometimes you just need someone who understands.

Whether you need a listening ear, someone to share your worries with, or simply reassurance that you’re not facing this alone, we’re here to listen and help where we can. We can also offer guidance and signposting to appropriate services where needed.

As this community grows, we hope to create a private Facebook support group, giving parents and carers the opportunity to connect, share experiences, support one another and remind each other that no one has to walk this journey alone.

If you need an ear and want to reach out please email me on:
📧 [email protected]

We know every family’s story is different, but we also know the power of feeling heard.

Whilst we are not a crisis service or counselling provision, we hope to offer something just as valuable, a community of parents who truly understand the journey.

This isn’t just for Hazelwood families, but for all experiencing similar.

Please share far and wide.

Welcome to Hazelwood Holding Space. 🌿

Shameless appreciation post! Please read.
As we sign off until September the 1st, I felt it important to highlight the tireless commitment of the staff here at Hazelwood. Our staff go absolutely above and beyond for each and every student and are the reason we are an effective, nurturing and highly respected provision.
Izzy joined us last September, initially a part-time role whilst she completed her degree in education. This quickly became a full-time role and she is a credit and asset to Hazelwood. Students have warmed to her and even the most reluctant children have been seen dancing, laughing and engaging in activities with her.
Jane originally came to us as a volunteer, but her exceptional skills set was too extensive to lose and she became a part-time staff member. During her time, her commitment, empathy and knowledge has supported all of our students. Nothing is ever too much trouble and our students have built excellent connections with her.
Cate is our volunteer and we couldn't be happier to have her onboard. Staff and students benefit from her ability to introduce a feeling of calmness and giggling can be heard whenever she is in. Students benefit from her clear communication and gentle nature. Her strong personality is inspiring and contagious, giving students the boost they often need.
Behind it all as always is Lesley Anne. Her vast experience and knowledge, creates tailored approaches enabling every student to progress. She is steadfast in her commitment to every student, as well as Hazelwood itself. Despite highly pressured situations, she remains calm and strong, essential in the work we do.
So that's us, we are Hazelwood ARC Limited . We will be back in September, energised (we hope) and excited to welcome you all back.
We hope you all have a fantastic summer.

Next on the prep list is one of our art activities, salt and watercolour painting...can you spot the theme this year!

Progress report.....

And so the preparation begins....anyone have a guess at what's being made today?