The end game!

Jenson Steven Lofthouse turned four on the 12th February 2020. He is at his happiest when he is covered in dirt, tools in hand, showing of his latest find or creation. He never stands still, loves talking and says ‘Hi’ to everyone he meets.

He has a jammed packed social life with parties most weekends as well as trips to local cafes and play areas. His weekdays are spent learning and playing with his friends at Pre-school or sat in his Grandmas arms listening to stories of days gone by.

Never did he imagine that overnight his entire world would change and everything he knew stop.

This little boy’s mummy is Vicky Lofthouse, CEO of Lancaster & District Chamber of Commerce. She is now one of millions ‘trying’ to work from home whilst also looking after a child. Not only dealing with her own emotions and struggles, trying to adapt to the new ‘temporary’ norm but also supporting the needs and welfare of Jenson. Here she explains more.

‘My multitasking skills have grown at an unprecedented rate over the last few weeks and my emotions are in overdrive. It is slightly reassuring that I am not on my own but it’s impossible to do what is being asked of mums and dads across the country. You simply can’t be a full-time mum/dad, attentive partner, patient teacher, perfect homemaker and full-time employee all at once. Nobody can. We are all doing what we can with an extraordinary situation. And that’s enough.’

‘I learnt pretty swiftly into this situation to give myself a break, adapt quickly and stay away from the media. If working from home with your child is frightening and driving you to the edge, you aren't alone. Kids demand around-the-clock attention—and parenting while juggling conference calls, never-ending emails, and tight deadlines is no joke.’

‘Help and Support is out there, so don’t be afraid to ask. The government has produced some great guides, but I find a good moan to my mum, a glass of gin and chatting to other mum’s via WhatsApp is just as good. My end game is for my boy, my family and me to come out the other end happy and healthy.’

Guidance for parents and carers on supporting children and young people’s mental health and wellbeing during the coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak can be found by visiting - https://bit.ly/39OezhW