Our Story
Free From Families was founded by parents who know first-hand the daily challenges of raising children with allergies, asthma, and eczema.
The Beginning
Free From Families was founded by Katie Aspinall, a mum of three children, Teddy, Brodie, and Aurora, all living with multiple food allergies.
Like so many families, Katie and her husband Laurence were thrown into the world of allergies unexpectedly. Teddy’s first reaction as a baby was a severe anaphylaxis to cow’s milk, a terrifying moment that changed their family’s life forever. In the years that followed, Brodie and Aurora were also diagnosed with multiple allergies.
Everyday life quickly became a careful balancing act. From mealtimes to playdates, holidays to hospital visits, allergies were always at the forefront of decisions. The constant need to plan ahead, manage risk, and advocate for safe environments brought stress, anxiety, and isolation, feelings that many allergy families will instantly recognise.
But alongside the challenges came determination. Katie realised that her family’s experience was far from unique: parents across the UK were fighting the same battles for recognition, safety, and inclusion. She began connecting with others, sharing stories, and building a space where no family would feel alone.
What started as a personal blog soon grew into a wider vision: a charity dedicated to supporting families, raising awareness, and driving change. And so, Free From Families was born.
As a mum of three children with allergies, I know how isolating it can feel. That’s why I started Free From Families so no parent has to face this journey alone.
Katie Aspinall - Founder
From One Family To Many
Free From Families began as Stockport Allergy and Asthma Parents, a volunteer-led support group in Stockport, Greater Manchester. Founded by parents of children with allergies, asthma, and eczema, the group started as a small gathering of families meeting informally with their young children.
Over the next five years, the group grew and evolved, connecting families across Greater Manchester who shared similar parenting journeys. What began as a circle of support blossomed into a thriving community, sharing advice, building connections, and offering encouragement.
In 2024, driven by the passion and dedication of its founders, Free From Families took the bold step to register as a charity. This milestone allows us to expand our reach, establish more allergy-friendly playgroups across the UK, and, most importantly, raise awareness about life with allergies, asthma, and eczema.
Together, we aim to create a safer, more inclusive world for every child.
Our Mission
To support families living with allergies, asthma, and eczema by providing community, education, and advocacy, ensuring no parent or child feels alone.
Our Vision
A world where every child with allergies, asthma, and eczema is safe, supported, and understood, at home, at school and in the community.
