Award-winning family support organisation faces crisis after visa refusal

A Worcestershire mother whose work supporting vulnerable children and families recently earned regional recognition is speaking out after her partner was left unable to work and facing an uncertain future following an immigration refusal.

Siân Cain, founder of Forest Families and Sunflower Families CIC, was recently recognised with the Community Involvement Award at the Worcestershire Education Awards for her dedication to supporting children with additional needs and their families across Bromsgrove, Redditch and Birmingham. Behind that award-winning work stands a small team of supporters, including her partner, Gabriel Ardana Ciuffatelli ("Gabs"), a Brazilian national who has spent more than two years building a life in the UK. Following a Home Office decision issued on 13 October, Gabriel's application to remain in the UK was refused. He has since been placed on immigration bail, preventing him from working while his legal options are explored.

For Siân, however, this is about far more than paperwork. As a mother of 2 disabled daughters, she says Gabriel has become an integral part of family life, helping care for the children, supporting daily routines and providing emotional support when family pressures become overwhelming. "My daughters adore him.

“He's been there through some incredibly difficult times and has become part of the stability our family depends on. We understand that immigration rules have to be followed and we're committed to doing everything properly. We simply want the opportunity for all of the evidence about our family and the people who rely on Gabriel to be properly considered."

The impact extends far beyond the family home. Through Forest Families and Sunflower Families CIC, Gabriel has spent countless hours helping maintain sites, supporting activities and assisting children and families who rely on the organisations' services. One child in particular, James (name changed), has developed a close bond with Gabriel over more than a year of support.

James has significant disabilities and was previously looked after in care before being adopted by a single mother. Gabriel has supported him as a one-to-one worker and personal assistant, helping him access community activities, alternative provision and social opportunities that would otherwise be difficult to reach. His mother says Gabriel has become a trusted and consistent figure in James's life, providing reassurance, encouragement and friendship.

Those close to the family say his absence would leave a gap that would be felt not only at home but across a wider network of vulnerable children and families. Gabriel also supports his younger sister, who lives legally in the UK and experiences significant mental health challenges. His family say he remains an important source of emotional and practical support in her life.

The family are now seeking specialist legal advice and have launched a petition calling for the case to be reviewed, while local MP Bradley Thomas has previously intervened with the Home Office regarding delays in the decision-making process. Despite the uncertainty, Siân says their goal remains simple. "We're not asking for special treatment.

“We simply want the chance for our family's circumstances, and the impact on the vulnerable people who depend on Gabriel, to be fully understood and taken into account. Gabs has spent years building relationships, helping others and contributing to our community. We hope there is a way forward that allows that to continue."