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
Ripon Man who brutally assaulted women jailed
New Knaresborough startup aiming to cut cardboard waste across Yorkshire
New psychology clinic offering mental health support to open in Knaresborough
Harrogate MP blasts 'unswimmable' bathing sites amid hot weather
Fairground rides return to Valley Gardens for half term
Six teenage boys arrested after 'violent incident' in Harrogate
Your Skipton and Your Ilkley to launch on DAB next week
Police appeal after hit-and-run on Knaresborough High Street
Harrogate Town announce signing of Chesterfield midfielder
Free Fuel Friday: Another winner scoops free tank of fuel
Smiley/sad face speed signs set to remain banned in North Yorkshire
Harrogate primary school takes climate education to national stage
Historic village pub enjoys successful reopening under new ownership
Masham primary school unveils newly refurbished library
No motorists turned away from Harrogate waste centres due to rule change
RHS Harlow Carr to host Summer Garden Weekend
First look inside Furlong and Furrow ahead of reopening
Harrogate man and colleagues tackle Three Peaks in memory of his mum
Harrogate care organisation raises £500 at Nidderdale Walk
Mayor urged to "come to the table" to discuss road repair funding
