WHO WE ARE AND WHAT WE DO

This group is run by parents/carers who understand first hand the impact a disability can have within the family unit, as well as on the individual.

The group was set up in 1999 as a support group for families with a visually impaired child.  We have been contacted by so many parents and carers of children with other disabilities that, in January 2002, we changed the support group to encompass all disabilities, regardless of whether the child has a visual impairment or not.

We have very close working links with the local authority in Tameside and we are currently helping to change and improve the services that they provide for our children.

Our main aim is to help each other through the difficult times and help our children to grow up with the best that we can get for them.

We intend for our children to have full social inclusion into groups and clubs, regardless of their disability, just like their non-disabled friends and peers.

We are, therefore, trying to promote an awareness of our children's needs and encourage and support local groups to accept our children and reduce fears and prejudices against disabled people and help them to build healthy relationships.

We also arrange outings and social events for all the family to attend and monthly support group meetings.

We also offer a limited advocacy service.

We are now running an email support group where you can post any questions and get to know other people who are facing many of the same problems or have already faced them and can give you tips and advice.