A family support group in Nantwich is raising thousands of pounds to take children and their parents or carers on a residential.
Chatterbox, based at Malbank School, is already halfway to its target to fund the special weekend to Menai in the summer.
The group was formed in 2009 and has become a vital part of the support network for many of the school’s parents and children.
Yvonne Rowland is a parent whose son has now left the school but who continues to be involved with Chatterbox as a Year 6 and 7 Parent Advocate.
“Having a child with special needs can be very isolating – just to be able to share your experiences with people that know what you’re going through is a really valuable thing,” she said.
“Chatterbox was a godsend for me. I’ve met lots of new people, we’ve really benefited from the structured sessions and it’s even given me freedom that I didn’t have before.”
The trip to Menai, organised for the past two years, was initially funded by a Lottery Grant but that has now ended.
This year the group is relying on its own fundraising activities.
Chatterbox presented a Christmas charity celebration in 2013 which raised £1,200, and other initiatives like supermarket bag-packing have taken the total to just over £3,000.
“We’re really appreciative of the support we’ve received so far from individuals and local businesses such as Cheerbrook, who supplied the turkey for our Christmas Celebration,” said Malbank’s Inclusion Centre Manager Kate Carter, who leads Chatterbox.
“We’re hoping for a good level of support at our next event so we can make our fundraising target and make sure the trip can happen.
“We know from previous years families have found it a really valuable weekend.
“As well as simply being away from home, which can be a challenge for some, we do lots of outdoor activities which positively stretch both parents and children in a supportive, safe environment. And it’s great fun!”
Chatterbox’s next event will be Easter Prize Bingo at Malbank School on Friday March 28 from 6pm.
Details or to donate contact Kate Carter on 01270 611009 ext 232 or email [email protected]
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