Weoley Castle businesses help fund festive fun

Dec 22 2009 by Rebekah Oruye, Birmingham Mail

FESTIVE cheer was in the air as youngsters with special needs enjoyed a Christmas party – thanks to generous support from businesses.

Yvonne Cartwright from Northfield helps run Circle of Friends, an out-of-school club based at the Quakers Friends Hall.

The club formed 18 months ago and is funded entirely by parents and carers, through a £2.50 donation each week.

Yvonne, whose eight-year-old grandson Cameron Jenks has autism, said the group provided an “invaluable” service for children with special needs.

“We are different to other clubs because we encourage children to bring their siblings along. Often children with special needs require more attention which can leave brothers and sisters feeling isolated.

“This way, the whole family can come and spend time together.”

The 52-year-old planned to organise a treat for the club but struggled to find enough funds.

“We wanted to have a Christmas party and take the kids to a pantomime in the new year so I asked local businesses in Weoley Castle to donate prizes for a raffle. To my amazement almost everyone gave something.”

The shopkeepers offered hampers, toiletries, chocolate and gift vouchers, which raised almost £300.

Yvonne and co-helpers used the cash to throw a fun-filled party and plan to take the group to a theatre show next month.