Dame Esther backs learning disabilites charity’s ‘Big Give’ week
DAME Esther Rantzen has backed a charity fundraising week for people with learning disabilities to recover from the trauma of Covid19 pandemic.
The journalist and TV presenter joined forces with Minstead Trust to call for donations to the Big Give fundraising week which began on November 30.
Dame Esther has recently become a strong supporter of the charity.
The organisation runs a day opportunities centre, supported living houses and the central library café in Portsmouth.
On November 19, Dame Esther joined those supported by
Minstead Trust in a drive to bring recognition to the difficulties that people with learning disabilities have faced during the pandemic.
A dozen people with learning disabilities and Dame Esther gathered at Minstead Lodge near Lyndhurst, bearing visual representations of the hobbies and passions they have missed as a result of Covid-19.
Dame Esther said that it was ‘moving’ to see the extent of those affected by this issue.
The trust wanted the event to highlight that the pandemic has left people with learning disabilities feeling even more lost and alone.
The issue has been made worse by what it says is a lack of support and funding.
Minstead Trust wants to help tackle this problem with a goal to raise £40,000 through the Big Give Christmas campaign and moves such as setting up a welfare fund, re-establishing community drop-in groups and helping to rebuild the skills and confidence of people in Portsmouth and Hampshire.
All donations during this week are instantly doubled thanks to generous pledgers.
Founder of ChildLine and The Silver Line, Dame Esther said: ‘This appeal aims to raise the money needed to reinstate the projects and activities that people rely on. If you can help us to bring back community services then it will make such a difference to vulnerable people.’
Minstead Trust supports over 200 people with learning disabilities to develop skills that allow them to gain greater independence and lead fulfilled lives.
Adam Dodd, Minstead Trust Chief Executive, said: ‘The pandemic has been difficult for everyone, but even more so for people with learning disabilities.
‘They are finding it more difficult to reintegrate into society and finding ways for us to support them to head back out into their communities is our key aim for the Big Give.’
The Big Give hopes to provide those supported by the trust with the tools to cope in the case of another lockdown, as well as funding activities and possibly for many a first ever holiday.
To find out more or to donate visit minsteadtrust.org.uk/big-give