A new disability charity in Harrogate which runs sibling groups and a day centre is calling on the community for support.
The Sibling Group was launched by CEO Grace Williams, as her younger brother Oscar has a severe learning disability, autism and complex needs.
Growing up with Oscar inspired Grace to train to become a special needs teacher, work in the NHS with autistic people in crisis and set up her own charity.
The charity started predominantly to run sibling groups and trips for children with a disabled brother or sister across Harrogate.
And the number of siblings who attend - and interest in the charity’s services - are growing rapidly.
Grace said:
“Siblings often face extreme stress, isolation and loneliness. Siblings often feel like no one else understands.
“We offer them a safe space to be themselves, have fun and meet others with similar experiences.”
Grace and her older sister Hannah also now work closely to run Oscar's Pathway - a disability day provision for adults with the most complex needs in the Harrogate area.
They offer a range of activities to support engagement, communication and independence, with the aim to support even the most complex adults to thrive and live a full and happy life.
However, the cost-of-living crisis is hitting The Sibling Group hard, and they need support from the local community.
Grace said:
"We would be so grateful if anyone could support us by donating.
“We are reaching out to the local community as we are a very small charity which is struggling to continue running due to lack of funding.
“The last thing we want to do is stop or reduce our services so we need your help!
“We really appreciate everyone's support and want to continue our work with siblings and disabled young people and adults for as long as possible."
The charity is asking for donations to continue running their groups and services, which can be made via their website, or donations of any items for their disability day centre.
This includes any packet food, such as rice, pasta, cereal, art resources, sensory toys/lights, sensory play items such as shaving foam, musical instruments such as drums, fabrics, blankets, cushions, beanbags, summer clothing, and life skills resources such as sponges and cloths.
If you feel that you are in a position to help, please email hannah@thesiblinggroup.org
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