(See updates below)

Thomas, my 41-year-old nephew was born with Down's Syndrome. My brother’s family have fought tirelessly throughout his life to support him and ensure that he enjoys as many opportunities as possible. He now lives in Hft residential accommodation where he enjoys a degree of independence with help from dedicated staff. Hft are a national charity that supports people with learning disabilities to live with independence and choice.

To celebrate reaching my 70th year I have decided to step out of my comfort zone (literally!) by making a tandem skydive at Tilstock Airfield Nr Whitchurch on 31^st March, (see update below) in order to raise funds for Hft.

During the last two years the pandemic has made life difficult for all of us. However, people with learning difficulties already faced enduring barriers to community, friendship and connection. Such barriers have been further exacerbated by the constraints of the pandemic, resulting in increased loneliness and isolation.

To give you just two examples of the wide range of support provided by Hft that your kind donations might support: 

• £30 could go towards a month's membership for someone with a learning disability to access their Luv2MeetU Friendship Service, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation.
• £50 would help to provide free information for anyone with a relative with a learning disability, from Hft's  Family Carer Support Service. 

Any amount you can donate will help people with learning disabilities to live the best lives possible. Thank you very much.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to the charity. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.