"If it wasn't for this place then it would be a disaster!" Rosie aged 14 years with a rare chromosomal disorder.

Skylarks welcomes families from any where who have a child or young person with an additional need or disability. Being a small parent-led independent charity based in Twickenham, we know first hand the extra effort needed in all areas of our child's life from 0-25 years. We include siblings and whole families into our unique offering too.

Growing up with a rare syndrome, cerebral palsy, to be on the austistic spectrum, have ADHD, a hidden disability or have global developmental delay is challenging enough for many of our young members but imagine what it's like currently being in lockdown. They need their routine and some need a specific diet which isn't easy to access currently.

So many of our young heroes don't understand what's going on, why they're not at school, can't see their friends, family or be at Skylarks. Some are separated from their parents, isolating at their specialist residential schools for their health and wellbeing.

At this unprecedented time they face so much more than their peers.

Parents are stretched. Looking after their special needs child/children, their siblings, managing their homes, perhaps caring for elderly parents or family, managing to keep their own work (possibly very late into the hours when the children eventually get to sleep) and avoiding getting the dreaded virus themselves - they are exhausted!

What Skylarks do best face to face by providing a variety of accessible play sessions, clubs and therapies to youngsters and supporting parents with empowering them through specialist workshops, advice, clinics and counselling with lead professionals have gone online.

As a listening ear, our trustees, volunteers and staff have moved swiftly to ensure that we can support their needs in this way and have made many phone calls to our members to hear how they're coping, how we can help further by sign posting or just understanding by being that sympathetic voice.

This is a crisis and our fundraising income has dropped drastically due to our events being cancelled or postponed. As we rely solely on grants and fundraising, this is an opportune time to help our award winning charity of fourteen years.

Skylarks is a sanctuary for those that can feel isolated so please do consider what it's like for them right now as they strive on as best as they can.

Thank you for your support in attending our quiz night or by gifting a donation today so that we can ensure we continue to help over 2,000 of our members to feel enabled and empowered and be their best selves.

Many thanks. Sona (Fundraiser and Partnership Manager sona@skylarks.charity)

"A place where we are not judged and can be relaxed, happy and supported". Parent