Stockton Council has awarded ten Group Access Grants worth up to £30,000 in total to support parents caring for disabled children.
The Group Access Grants have been awarded to local organisations ‘The George Hardwick Foundation’ and ‘Jack in the Box’.
The two organisations will now provide a range of activities for disabled children with disabilities including a holiday play schemes, martial arts and yoga, dance and performing, different cultural activities and archery for young people.
Cllr Ann McCoy, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said: “A consultation exercise was undertaken with parents caring for disabled children last year by Stockton United for Change, Stockton ’s parent participation group. It was identified that parents wanted more activities in the holiday periods for under-8s, as well as a wider range of activities for children of all ages. The Group Access Grants have been developed in response to this.
“We’re delighted to continue in our commitment to listening and responding to parent’s requests and award these grants to organisations that will provide these new activities – helping to provide enjoyment and interest for children with disabilities.”
Ingrid Brough-Williams, Centre Manager of The George Hardwick Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to receive this grant – it provides a wonderful opportunity to expand our services so that we can welcome even more children to ‘George’s Place’ helping them to discover and learn new activities in a supportive and caring environment.”
The George Hardwick Foundation supports over 5,000 Carers in Stockton-on-Tees. George’s Place is based within The George Hardwick Foundation and supports all children with complex and additional needs.
Jack in the Box creates opportunities, develops existing provision and inspires individuals to engage in a variety of activities to aid in the social, emotional and physical development of children, young people and adults with disabilities or additional needs.
For further information on this release, please call Cassandra Ferguson, Communication Team at Stockton Council, on (01642) 526162.
