Funding for Boston Down Syndrome Support Group

Boston Big Local’s Community Chest panel has awarded £1,000 of funding to Lincolnshire Down Syndrome Support Group to support the start-up of a new group in Boston. The funding will be used to buy soft play equipment and sensory toys to create a fun environment where children with Down Syndrome can play safely.

The group will be run by Charlotte Clarkson who said: “We want to create a fun, safe environment where children with Down Syndrome and their siblings can play and engage while their parents and  carers mix informally with each other. This will provide opportunities for parent-to-parent advice, support and understanding without the pressures of worrying about wandering and vulnerable children.”

Each group session will conclude with some group singing and signing (Makaton) to encourage communication and bonding with the families who attend.

“I know from personal experience how useful it is for parents of children with Down Syndrome to be able to share their experiences and exchange information,” Charlotte said. “Having someone to discuss issues with in a non-judgemental atmosphere is refreshing and just being able to talk freely can make a family have a more positive outlook. For some families it may be the only opportunity that they have to be able to relax outside of the home.”

The venue for the group will be Restore Church on Station Street, which has generously offered the use of their building so that a Boston Down Syndrome family group can be set up under the umbrella and guidance of Lincolnshire Down Syndrome Support Group. The group will be free for families to attend and, as well as encouraging play and communication skills, it will provide a supportive network and sign-posting for parents and carers.

If you live in the Boston area and are interested in joining the group, please email Keeley.ldssg@hotmail.com at Lincolnshire Down Syndrome Support Group for further information.

Pictured above are: Charlotte Clarkson, her daughter Isabella, and Emma Hall from Lincolnshire Down Syndrome Support Group receiving a cheque from Jody Raggo and Richard Tory from Boston Big Local.