ByAnonymous, Anonymous
A 33-year-old man with learning disabilities has been the focus of Norwood's New Year appeal, which has a £100,000 target.
Through the charity's support, Ben Silver has acquired new skills which are helping him to lead a more independent life.
Mr Silver struggles to communicate and has difficulty understanding social boundaries. He lives in Norwood accommodation in Stanmore and enjoys music therapy sessions, fitness and dance classes and Jewish cultural workshops. He works at The Deli at Norwood's Kennedy Leigh Family Centre in Hendon.
As well as helping with life skills, the charity has given him the opportunity to gain a football coaching qualification through the Spurs Norwood Altogether Project.
Norwood chief executive Norma Brier said the community's support was crucial to implementing its three-year Change a Life strategy.
"It is a period of significant financial challenge and it is our ongoing commitment to ensure that we are able to deliver good quality, personalised services which are good value for money."