Butterfly FoRest (Respite for Extra-Special Tots)scheme allows children who have special needs to play in a safe environment while parents have a few hours to themselves. It is based in Garlogie near Westhill and is attended by kids from the surrounding area. Hillary Mulligan's son Niall who has Downs Syndrome has attended the scheme for the last 5 years and enjoys it immensely, and all the families greatly value the respite time that the scheme provides. The scheme which was started by the community 10 years ago, is run largely by parents and relies on fund raising to cover costs. All staff have to be professionally trained to provide the care required as the needs of the kids range widely both behaviourally and physically. This year in particular we have struggled with funding and the sessions have had to be restricted as a result. We aim to run every 2nd Sunday during term time and 3 sessions a week during the school holidays. The funds will be used for staffing and training costs for the near term, and for specialist equipment.