Sam Bailey, the winner of X Factor’s tenth series, has shared the challenges her 14-year-old son Tommy faces due to his autism diagnosis. Tommy struggled with the transition to secondary school and expressed thoughts of suicide. Sam, who gained fame on The X Factor in 2013 and remains a prominent figure in showbiz, has been vocal about the lack of support she has received for her son, despite seeking help from doctors. She disclosed that Tommy resorted to self-harming behaviors, such as banging his head against the wall, when he couldn’t cope with the stresses of school. The ordeal took a toll on his mental health, leading him to make distressing statements about taking his own life.
To address the challenges Tommy is facing, Sam had to go through the process of getting a diagnosis and proving that he needed specialized support in navigating the school system. Despite being able to secure a private diagnosis, Tommy’s struggles continued and forced Sam to take a stronger stance in advocating for his needs. She highlighted the difficulty in obtaining support for her son, mentioning instances where the National Autistic Society and GP services were not able to provide adequate assistance. Sam has thrown herself into fundraising efforts for individuals on the autism spectrum as an ambassador for Children’s Activities Week, aiming to raise funds to support services and autism assessments.
In 2023, Sam spoke about the prolonged battle to ensure Tommy received appropriate care and education. Tommy’s experiences led Sam to fight for more understanding and resources for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She emphasized the importance of every child having access to education that meets their unique needs and expressed the challenges she faced in ensuring Tommy’s well-being. The singer shared the struggles her family went through when Tommy threatened self-harm, emphasizing the need for better support systems and educational accommodations for children with autism. Sam’s dedication and advocacy are not only for her son but also for other families facing similar challenges.
Sam highlighted the difficulties Tommy faced in adapting to his school environment and the need for specialized support to enhance his well-being. The lack of understanding and resources for individuals on the autism spectrum motivated Sam to become an advocate for raising awareness and funds. She stressed the importance of early intervention and tailored support for children with autism to ensure they thrive in their learning and social environments. Sam’s journey with her son’s autism diagnosis sheds light on the complexities and struggles families face when navigating systems that are not always equipped to provide the necessary support. Her determination to create a better future for her son and others in similar situations showcases her strength and resilience as a mother and advocate.
