12/06/2026
This week has been incredibly difficult for so many in our communities across Northern Ireland. The Parent Rooms supported one family who had been burned out of their homes for the second time in a year. This picture was drawn by the eldest of four children, aged 6, 4, 2 and an infant.
The parents were in a state of terror, having fled their burning home, leaving everything behind them. I have never seen such fear on someone's face as I did on Tuesday night, it will stay with me forever.
This family is one of many who will bear the physical and emotional scars of this week for the rest of their lives.
While the discourse continues around immigration and community infrastructure, please let us not forget our humanity. These are real people. They are frightened. They are traumatised.
Violence is never, ever the answer.
The drawing below is the same as any other family drawing, made by an innocent young child who doesn't understand why they can't go home to get their wrestler toys, or why they don't own shoes any more.
The Parent Rooms will continue to stand in solidarity with all families and those affected by this outrageous attack on innocent people. We will also continue to support families regardless of race, religion, sexuality, or class. If you are a parent and have been affected by the issues raised this week, please know we are here and willing to help.
We also want to say a huge thank you to all the other volunteers, local representatives, charities, and everyone else who pitched in this week to ensure those affected could get to safety and be cared for. When the world feels dark and scary, there are also many people helping, supporting, and offering a hand of friendship.
A special shout out to Paul Doherty, Tomas O'Neill and everyone at John Finucane's office who worked alongside us to ensure this family found a new home, and who supported myself and my team right through a very difficult 24 hours.
My hope is that this violence has come to an end and we can move forward, repair, and heal together.
Michelle Bradley