Boris Johnson backed Stamford Hill special needs school Side by Side’s campaign for state aid when addressing 750 guests at a fundraising dinner at London’s Park Lane Hilton on Tuesday.
The London Mayor praised school founder Rebecca Rumpler, “whose vision and determination has seen Side by Side play such a vital role in the community”. Then, to Side by Side chairman Yossel Margulies, he went on: “I fully support your efforts in applying for partial state aid which will greatly benefit the children and their families who rely on your services so greatly.”
Mrs Rumpler said she started Side by side 13 years ago after “struggling to find a school that would take my son, who was born with Down’s syndrome. Over the years, the calls for our services increased ever more. We now support and educate some 70 children and provide a wide range of therapies.” An award recognising her contribution was presented by Lady Jakobovits. The dinner raised over £400,000.
