This Christmas, Southampton-based disability charity Rose Road Association is asking you to support their match-funded Christmas Appeal to raise £20,000 for their specialist respite care services for families with disabled children and young people, now and for the long term.
Head of Fundraising, Michelle Bowdidge, explains: “We are privileged to be alongside families often as their only trusted support network for many years. 31% of our families have been with us for over 10 years. Families tell us we become their extended family and second home, where their young person feels safe and loved.
However, demand is increasing. We’re receiving more and more referrals for children with complex clinical and behavioural needs. More families without statutory provision rely on our emergency respite care to support them through times of challenge, and prevent crisis and breakdown. We need to sustain, grow, and adapt our services, therapies, and activities to continue to meet the needs of every individual, while remaining alongside families who need us long-term”.
Katy, mum to twins Darcey and Eden, whose needs are becoming more complex as they get older, says: “It’s really overwhelming at times as a mum, knowing what they go through. As a parent, you just want to know your children are getting every opportunity to be happy and feel safe. Rose Road staff have the training and expertise to manage all the girls’ medical needs, and they’re just so happy there. It gives them their hope and joy for the week”.
James’ mum, Helen, says: “Despite James’ complex health needs, he can go out, socialise and feel part of society. He’s a grown man, and I feel reassured knowing he’s doing everything you’d want a young adult to do. It’s everything we want for him. Rose Road is our family’s only support network, and I want it to be there for James’ lifetime”.
But Rose Road can only continue to be there for these families, and those who’ll need them in the future, with your support!
Generous local match-funders have pledged £10,000 to double donations made to the Appeal, from Friday 28th November until Christmas eve, to help raise at least £20,000 this Christmas!
Please donate to support Rose Road, and help make a difference between families just coping and thriving, this Christmas. To find out more and how to donate, please visit roseroad.org.uk/christmas-appeal.
