A 24/7 labour of love that merits our help

Chris Carter ANYONE who has in any way been involved with the families of handicapped children knows the great sacrifices they make to care for them. Over the years we have reported on many and their humbling stories never cease to impress. They give unconditionally –

Chris Carter

ANYONE who has in any way been involved with the families of handicapped children knows the great sacrifices they make to care for them.

Over the years we have reported on many and their humbling stories never cease to impress.

They give unconditionally - often devoting every minute of every day.

Sadly, although care services for such families have improved, it is still an uphill struggle.

It remains difficult for mums and dads to find the much-needed respite which enables them to recharge their batteries.

Often, the specialist equipment which makes their lives easier is hard to find and expensive to buy.

The Recorder's Christmas appeal this year is focusing on the three schools for pupils with special education needs and, in particular, their after-school clubs which families see as lifelines.

Our pictures on our centre spread this week tell their own stories. The youngsters are clearly having fun, and making full use of the specialist equipment available.

We want to help the schools continue this much-needed service, which Ashley Wotton's mum Tracey sees as a godsend.

Recorder readers have always dug deep and shown great generosity when we ask them to help.

I know this will not be an exception.

Please help whichever way you can, whether it be a small donation or by organising a fundraising event.

I am sure the families will be eternally grateful and it will mean so much to the children.