Caring pupils sock it to charity
CHILDREN in schools across Rochdale munched gingerbread biscuits and wore odd socks to mark World Down’s Syndrome Day.
Several schools and nurseries across the borough took part, including St Michael’s CE Primary School in Bamford, Holy Trinity CE Primary School in Littleborough, The Willows Nursery in Spotland and St Thomas More’s RC Primary School in Middleton.
It was in aid of charity DSWestPennine, which supports local youngsters with Down’s Syndrome.
Funds are still being counted but the charity believes that its target of £2,000 has already been smashed.
Moira Fields, founder of DSWestPennine, said: “We have been absolutely blown away by the level of support from our local schools. Not only did staff go to the trouble of organising the sales and non-uniform days, but also helped their pupils better understand this genetic condition by holding special assemblies which explained what life is like today for children with Down’s Syndrome.
“The money raised will make a huge difference to the lives of our members and their families, with every single penny working to help unlock their potential. We are so incredibly grateful to all the staff, parents and pupils for getting behind us – it really does mean the world to our families, who have been touched both by the generous donations and the love and acceptance that has been shown for their children.”
DSWestPennine runs monthly support meetings, where families can socialise, while their children access free hydrotherapy and speech and language therapy sessions and take part in a variety of crafts and more energetic activities.
Families who have a child with Down’s Syndrome or have found out that they’re expecting a baby with the condition, can find out more atdswestpennine.co.uk or call 07842 555725 for general enquiries or 07842 534819 for the new parent hotline.