When you are struggling what would help?

[WhoWhoWhoWho]

I'm worried about my sister, she has 4 dcs and a DP with health issues and I know she is tired, snapping, fed up, etc.

She is skint, lives in a crappy area, kids can't play out. I'm worried about her TBH. We are quite alike and she will just struggle on without admitting she needs help I think.

I wish I could go round and help out but I'm on my own with DS who has a disability (and therefore I have no reliable sitters), I don't drive and neither does sis and we live a fair way from each other.

What could I do to help? Is going round and iving her a hug and some chocolate too lame? I wish I could wave a magic wand for her.

[letsgetloud]

What a lovely sister you are. I would be so greatful if my sister ever came round just for a cuppa and a chat.

[RufousBartleby]

Just be there, phone, acknowledge that she must be struggling, listen. Help doesn't always need to be practical. A sympathetic ear can make a lot of difference to a person.

[Thornykate]

I agree, you do sound like a lovely sister I wish I had one like you!

Maybe plan an afternoon catch up, either at hers or yours, get a DVD & some munchies for the kids while u & sis have a catch up. Maybe have a bit of a pamper, soak ur feet & have a facemask or whatever you both like to do.

Chocs & a hug are always great though :)

[WhoWhoWhoWho]

Thanks for replies, I am calling into hers one day during week with lunch and chocs for a catch up.

[CarGirl]

Could you take around some family meals that can be either fridged or frozen like lasagne. One less meal to make is always welcome!

[WhoWhoWhoWho]

That's a good idea cargirl. I was thinking earlier she will be doing all of the cooking and all of the washing up. I do that all the time myself but I only have me and DS, she has 6 in her house so much more of a workload!

[zookeeper]

You sound lovely. Keep in phone contact so she doesn't feel unsupported. Could she get the kids to you so that you could have them for (gulp!) a weekend/part of half term. I know that's probably not an option. Could you find out if there are homestart volunteers in her areas to see if they can help (if that's what she wants). Could you do some housework whilst you are there? Definitely think arriving with food for her a meal and perhaps a cake is a good idea..

[CarGirl]

Also help her get some washing on, on the line, folded and put away as that stuff just breeds constantly!

Please tell me she doesn't iron?