This week’s ‘Thought for the Week’ is different from usual in as much as it is more of a sharing of information about a new form of ‘Outreach’ that, this week, has taken a big stride forward in its development. It is also an invitation to all who read this to think how they might take an interest and possibly get involved.
For a number of years, we have run ‘Carers Count’ a monthly meeting providing, for anyone caring for another, a few hours respite and the opportunity to share experiences and chat over a coffee.
Back in March our attention was drawn to a particular group of people, with specific challenges, who are in much need of such support. Those people are the parents of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
In response, we have set up a ‘SEND Parents Count’ meeting once a month on the same basis as ‘Carers Count’. A small group of parents have come together over the last few months, and apart from the opportunity of a few hours respite and mutual support, have been enlightening Anne Ford and me as to the enormous physical and emotional demands on a parent caring for one, or more, children in a family suffering from Autism or ADHD (Attention Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder).
This week, we have taken a further significant step forward when Louise Gunnarsson, Neurohub Co-Ordinator at ZINK, joined our meeting and imparted helpful information to parents and gave ideas as to how we might be able to further support these parents.
If you would like to know more about getting involved in developing this ‘outreach’ then please speak with either me or Anne Ford. If you know of any parents who might benefit from coming along to ‘SEND Parents Count’ then please share the attached flyer and pray for them:
“O God our Father, grant to parents of children with special needs the wisdom, patience, emotional and physical strength needed to care for their children.
Shed your blessing upon them in their home, and may the spirit of love and peace abide with them always. Amen”
With blessings
Nigel