Charity for 2010/11
- Stepping Stones
- A support group for parents and carers of children with Down Syndrome www.steppingstonesds.co.uk/
- · Down Syndrome is not hereditary. It is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, as yet no-one knows why. The only definite link is the increased risk with maternal age, but babies with Down Syndrome are born to those under 35 too. There are 3 types; most have Trisomy 21, where the extra chromosome is present in all cells,
- · 1 in 1000 babies will have Down Syndrome, which means approximately 600 babies are born with the condition every year.
- · 40-50% of babies with Down Syndrome are born with heart problems and half of those will need surgery.
- · A significant number will have hearing and sight problems.
- · Most will have a thyroid disorder, poor immune system, respiratory problems and an obstructed gastrointestinal tract.
- · All have some degree of learning disability.
- · Most meet the typical developmental milestones of walking, talking etc later.
- · Early intervention is crucial in helping children develop to their full potential and achieve more than many would believe possible.
A few facts about Down Syndrome
Stepping Stones was set up in 2006 by two mums of children with Down Syndrome, Emma and Sharon, and they are based in Hartley Wintney.
They set the group up because they had found there was very little support locally. The group aims to provide support, a place to share experiences, and organise family outings and events.
In addition the group runs a library for toys, equipment and books and professional services such as speech therapy, and runs training sessions for parents/carers and linked professionals.
They also ensure parents and carers are made aware of other support available to them and help them every step of the way, including help with filling out forms. It is estimated that it costs an extra £7000 a year to raise a disabled child, so this source of information is often invaluable to families.
Cherie, Pacey's mum, says, "I don't think we as a family would be as happy or content without Stepping Stones. In the first six weeks after Pacey was born, I didn't want to speak to anyone, but Emma from Stepping Stones phoned regularly to offer support and also encourage me to come along to their monthly meetings. I did and I am so glad I did. The support has been invaluable to me, with sharing experiences, feelings, and swapping tips and advice. It has also been fantastic for my husband. He has had a chance to speak with the other dads and I know this has helped him tremendously. The practical help has also been fantastic - just the paperwork alone is baffling and to have people who have done it all before has been so helpful."
Charities for 2009/10
- Yateley Industries
- a local organisation responsible for providing training and rehabilitation to local disabled residents, enabling them where possible to enter mainstream employment. For those with disabilities too severe, Yateley Industries can still provide support through its residentail care and life skill training and enjoy the social events it organises. More information can be found at www.YateleyIndustries.co.uk
- Revive and Thrive
- based at Mytchett Baptist Chapel, the charity aims to encourage people in a number of developing countries to be reliant on themselves rather than aid. It sends out donated equipment, which it refurbishes and smaller items, including fabric and other sewing supplies. These supplies enable people who otherwise could not afford the tools, to work and support their families. The charity can be contacted on 01276 692036 and are looking for all sorts of equipment, not just sewing equipment:
What you can donate
- Drill bits, and tools for carpenters, metalworkers, car mechanics, engineers and builders, educational materials such as books, computer paper, stationery, wallcharts and friezes, musical instruments, handturn sewing machines converted to electricity, knitted garments, boxed and complete knitting machines, knickers, solid rubber balls, watches, socks, torches, cameras and mobile phones.
No, thank you
- Anything that is badly rusted, Surform planes and files, computers, foot operated and modern sewing machines, gardening tools, typewriters and decorating tools.
The idea here is that members will bring along fabric etc that they wish to donate to the monthly meetings.
- Ticehurst House
- Ticehurst is a Local Authority Home for older people which was purpose built in 1976 on the outskirts of Aldershot. Initially accommodation was provided for physically frail older people but in 2005 the registration was changed and now Ticehurst is home for older people who have a diagnosis of dementia.
Ticehurst offers a wide range of individual care. Some people make Ticehurst their permanent home whilst others come for a short break only. Ticehurst provides 24-hour care and support where needed, promoting independence and providing assistance with daily living, whilst respecting privacy and dignity at all times.
Fund-raising and donations go towards providing activities and entertainments within the home, incuding art and craft, music and movement and bingo. External outings are also arranged to local places of interest, garden centres and local pubs for lunch. Money raised also provides each resident with a birthday and Christmas present.