Sheila's Story - The Founder of Family Friends

Sheila's Story - The Founder of Family Friends

In 1993, Family Friends was born, ignited by the incredible vision and tenacity of our founder, Sheila Paget. Sheila's unwavering commitment to early intervention and her profound empathy for those in need set the stage for something truly extraordinary.

As we reflect on the journey that led to our inception, we are reminded of Sheila's remarkable compassion. She began her mission by reaching out to young people residing in the local Barnardo's home in her neighborhood. Her heart was moved by their stories, their struggles, and their estrangement from their families.

Sheila's curiosity knew no bounds, and she couldn't help but wonder what had led these young souls to such isolation. Like many who embark on grassroots charitable endeavors, she was driven by an unshakeable desire to make a difference.

Sheila embarked on a mission to rally her friends and local residents, urging them to volunteer and extend a helping hand to families in need. Her message was clear: "Help them help themselves." This philosophy, born in the early days of Family Friends, remains the bedrock of our mission even today.

Our philosophy then, as it is now, is that every family has the inner strength to overcome their challenges. Life often throws hurdles our way, and while some families have the support systems, extended networks, financial stability, and essentials to weather the storms, others do not.

Sheila's insight was a guiding light. She saw the potential in every family, recognising that with a little support, they could find their way through the toughest times.

This year, Sheila visited us at our new offices beneath the Westway. Her presence reignited our memories of her interactions with young people, her insatiable curiosity, and her enduring compassion.

Sheila shared stories of outings, simple acts like walking to the park, lending a hand with the dishes, helping with homework, or just engaging in heartfelt conversations about friends. These seemingly mundane acts were etched in her memory as vividly as if they had happened yesterday.

Today, while our role may have evolved from early intervention to a more supportive one, our commitment to inquiry and our unwavering faith in the power of family remains unshaken. Families now often come to us for guidance, seeking a step-down approach to their struggles. Our volunteers play a pivotal role, offering a series of seemingly small interventions that carry immense transformative power.

For our families, these moments are anything but ordinary. They are lifelines. They are the keys to unlocking mental well-being, to rebuilding relationships, and to rediscovering hope.

Our befriending volunteers are the unsung heroes in this narrative. They step into the lives of our families, offering a hand of friendship, support, and understanding. To allow a stranger to become part of your life, especially during moments of vulnerability, is a testament to the resilience and strength of the families we serve.

Sheila's legacy lives on through our charity, and her unwavering belief in the power of family continues to inspire us. The small acts of kindness, the heartfelt conversations, and the willingness to walk alongside our families make all the difference in the world.

It is with profound gratitude that we cherish Sheila's ongoing involvement with the charity she founded 30 years ago. Her spirit infuses every aspect of our work, reminding us that love, compassion, and small but meaningful interventions can heal and transform lives.