“As a mum of a child with spina bifida, I know from personal experience the daily challenges facing a child with a condition that affects learning, movement and health, and the amazing difference good support at school makes.” (Sam Gardiner, Poppy’s mum).

Shine’s Christmas Appeal 2017 aims to raise £5,000 in December to fund our education work, supporting over 3000 children and young people across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. With your support, we will create life changing resources and support for children with spina bifida and hydrocephalus, their families and the education professionals who work with them, to unlock the potential in children like Poppy (pictured above).

Shine support schools and professionals to spot the signs of these often hidden disabilities and provide resources and practical advice to maximise every child's potential.

Through the Shine Brighter programme, your kind donation will create:

• New Benny & Bella Bear Club resources to help children learn through the adventures of Poppy’s favourite bears – Benny, who has hydrocephalus, and Bella, who has spina bifida
• New educational resources and activities to enable teachers and support staff reach out to children with these complex learning disabilities
• School visits by Shine’s specialist team, who know just the right support each child needs from home to school
• Reassurance and support for families who often feel ‘at breaking point’
• Access to expert advice on education legislation matters, so children like Poppy and Connie have the same quality of education experience and life chances.