Charity and community

WIGHTAID SUPPORTS… RAINBOW CLUB

A warm welcome is guaranteed at Rainbow Club; a sociable support group for disabled children and their families on the Isle of Wight

Rainbow Club was established 14 years ago by Clare Williams, who at the time struggled to find a way to connect with others who understood the needs of her son Christopher, who has Down’s

Syndrome.

As Christopher has grown up, the club has grown too – providing support and friendship to hundreds of disabled children and their families.

The club has been based at various locations since its creation, but the warm welcome remains the same. Before the Covid-19 outbreak, the support group – run entirely on a Brian Marriott presenting a cheque to Clare and Christopher from Rainbow Club, with WightAID voluntary basis – hosted monthly supporter Sandra Knowles of Hillbans Pest Control and JR Zone family sessions, stay-and-play sessions, coffee mornings, dance ‘All funds donated by local businesses and individuals groups and parent support activities, from pottery painting and crafting to are rapidly directed to organisations large and small meeting for a walk. to support their work in the heart of our community.’ “Over the years I have met so many amazing children and families through Rainbow Club, the courage gain support from each other, to enjoy and strength they show day to day is special times together and have some immense”, explains Clare. “It is such fun.” a privilege to get to know them and be a small part of their journey. The support from WightAID has helped so much in continuing to provide a safe and friendly place for families to Rainbow Club has adapted quickly to this new way of life we are experiencing, with support sessions online to keep families connected, and coffee mornings taking place Rainbow Club members say… “The support we get is amazing, fun for the kids but also much needed time out for the parents.” Shaylan’s mum xx via Zoom. A new laptop bought with “Surrounded with amazing a grant from WightAID has become people who truly understand invaluable, helping Clare to co-ordinate at a time when life can feel activities and continue with her so lonely. No judgements just fundraising work. happy welcoming smiles.” To find out more about Rainbow Club, Bentley & Brooklyn’s mummy x visit their Facebook page – search “I'd like to thank Rainbow Club for ‘Rainbow Club IOW supporting for the support network they children with special needs’ or email have provided me, especially rainbowiow@btinternet.com when times are tough. One awesome supportive network If you would like to make a difference to charities on the Island, contact admin@wightaid.org or call 01983 555915 or visit www.wightaid.org charity number 1166476 with people who understand.” Kaelan's mum x

STAND WITH DEREK AND LIGHT UP A LIFE WITH MOUNTBATTEN

This year, Mountbatten’s annual Light up a Life event will look a little different. From the comfort of our own homes, we have found a new way to collectively remember those we have lost, and for us to be together in a different way

We are inviting you to stand alongside islander Derek – whose wife Lorraine (pictured above) died during lockdown following a short battle with cancer – by dedicating a light on our Mountbatten Remembrance Tree this Christmas. Like the many people we care for, Derek looked to us for support in coming to terms with the death of Lorraine, and we are giving him all the time, space and support that he needs. For Derek, lighting a light on our tree is a way for him to honour her memory. When you donate to dedicate a light to a loved one, you will receive a ‘Light up a Life at Home’ pack containing a special candle to be lit during our online service at 4pm on Sunday 13th December, as well as a dedication card to hang on your Christmas tree at home, and an Order of Service, including readings and music. Our beautiful remembrance tree will be lit with all the lights dedicated to our loved ones.

Light up a Life is for everyone and offers our Island community the opportunity to come together to remember.

To join us and remember someone special to you this Christmas, donate by picking up a leaflet from one of our shops, or visit mountbatten.org.uk/ light-up-a-life-at-home

For further information visit www.mountbatten.org.uk