A DORSET disability charity is nearing its fundraising target in a bid to redevelop a children’s respite home.

Diverse Abilities launched its Lilypad appeal last year in a bid to raise £250,000 to provide more children with disabilities in the county and their families the vital support they need.

Following significant backing from a host of supporters, the charity is now just £35,000 away from being able to revamp its 21-year-old respite home.

Helen Mortimer, fundraising manager at Diverse Abilities, said: “As a local charity we rely on the support of our local community to play a part in the future of the children we care for and their families. Just imagine if your child was born with a disability, for which there is no cure, and that they will need constant care throughout their life. Many families face challenges that most of us could never envisage.

“These families need a service like our respite home – we help them cope.

“By supporting the appeal, you will be helping Diverse Abilities provide absolutely vital care to children and families.

“To get involved and help us raise our last £35,000 you can sign up to a challenge event, arrange your own event or make a donation.”

“All support will be very much appreciated.”

Andrea Lennox-Gordon, whose daughter Victoria, receives support from the respite home, said: “When you care for a child who is highly dependent on you 24/7 a break is crucial, whether it is to sleep, relax a little, do some chores or spend time with other family members.

“So the time that Victoria spends at the respite home is very precious to us but also to her because she can spend time doing things any other young person would do.”

The upgraded children’s respite home will be double the size and will therefore offer a more spacious, comfortable and homely environment.

It will also allow the charity to provide support to many more children with additional hours of care.

Wendy Philo, whose son David also receives support from the respite home, said: “It has been a lifeline for us as a family. It has enabled us to have a break physically, but more importantly an emotional break from the many issues involved with caring for a life limited child.

“The best part of David staying at the respite home is that he really enjoys his stays.

“Quite simply without Diverse Abilities respite we would not have coped and David would have had a less enjoyable childhood. His smiles say it all.”

For more information visit lilypadappeal.org.uk or call 01202 718266.