How Norwood has helped boys with severe autism and learning disabilities and their families is showcased in the charity’s direct mail Pesach appeal, which has a £90,000 target.
Daniel, Mark and Paul are eight-year-old triplets. Mark and Paul were diagnosed four years ago. Their parents now rely on the one weekend a month the boys stay at Norwood respite care home Buckets & Spades Lodge for a break and the chance to spend time with their other children.
Mark and Paul also go twice-weekly to Unity, Norwood’s recreational scheme for children with disabilities, where they enjoy sports, art, music and outings.
Also featured in the appeal is 21-year-old Rachel, who has Down’s syndrome, severe learning disabilities and a heart defect.
She communicates by sign language but often gets frustrated when she cannot properly express her feelings. She lives in a Norwood care home in Hendon,= where staff provide round-the-clock support. Rachel enjoys going to Norwood recreational service Links for activities such as art, drama and Israeli dancing.
Her mother said: “Rachel has developed into a very happy young adult because of the opportunities provided to her at Norwood. We can only thank the organisation and the carers for making Rachel’s life so fulfilled, as well as for the incredible support the whole family has received.”
To get more from community, click here to sign up for our free community newsletter.