The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A lifeline is being offered to parents of disabled children who may feel isolated with the setting up of a new group.
Little Miracles South Holland started just over a week ago in Holbeach and, according to organisers, it is already clear how much need there is for it.
At the first session four families turned up, even though there had been no publicity, and this week even more dropped in to find support from other parents in a similar position.
Julie Emmons, who is one of the volunteers who has helped set the group up after reaping the benefits of being part of the charity’s flagship group in Peterborough, knows first hand what parents of disabled children go through.
Her son William is three but has global development delay and is possibly autistic.
Julie said: “As a parent of a disabled child I know how isolating it can be.
“I have been asked to leave a supermarket because the staff didn’t understand his behaviour and we have been turned away from so many playgroups.
“We really want to get the word out about Little Miracles to parents of disabled children because often they are very isolated. It can be difficult to even leave the house and if you do you can feel like you are being stared at or pointed at and judged.
“That doesn’t happen at our group. There is a warm welcome for everyone and the children can play in a safe environment.
“Parents can get together with others who understand what it is like.”
The Little Miracles group meets every Monday from 9.30am to 11.30am at The Reading Rooms, Church Street, Holbeach.
It is open to all those with children who have additional needs or life-limiting conditions.
As well as a listening ear and friendly support, the group also hopes to offer advice on benefits through the Little Miracles charity head office in Peterborough.
But the fledgling group is hoping to enlist the help of the public to ensure it can offer the best service possible to the families it supports.
As well as cash donations, the south Lincolnshire Little Miracles group is also asking for donations of toys and for volunteers who could offer fundraising, administration or IT services.
One of its immediate needs is for a garden shed where it can store its equipment between meetings.
Anyone who can help is urged to call 07949 951799 or 07534 766697.
