Doncaster mum's £30,000 appeal for special needs outdoor therapy centre

Growing Together has recently opened its doors to provide an education and day service for adults and young people of secondary school age with SEND or additional needs by providing a therapeutic outdoor environment where people can get involved in agriculture, animal care and horticulture.

Now grateful mum Lorraine Mowatt is urging people to support a £30,000 GoFundMe campaign so the project in Broomhouse Lane, Edlington can go from strength to strength.

Lorraine, a mum of four, has a 25-year-old daughter Samantha who suffers from a genetic disorder that affects her speech and communication and leaves her vulnerable to the outside world.

She said: “Sam has always been a social butterfly and for anyone that knows her, loves her personality, but behind closed doors Sam struggles with emotions and cannot fully express her feelings.

"This project "Growing Together" is going to be what I believe will be a new lease of life to Sam and will make a massive difference to her mental well being.

“Animal therapy alone will boost Sam's mental health as this has declined over the last few months and as we are nearing the end of lockdown this project will benefit her, along with lots of other people like Sam and their families.

"As a family we have prayed for something like this for Samantha to attend, join in with, have pride, purpose and feel a part of something.”

The project is the brainchild of Amy Walker and her partner Charlie. Cash raised by the fundraising campaign will be used to provide items such as fencing, gates, animal pens, plants, seeds, signs, seating and even a minibus.

Added Lorraine: “This project is very close to mine and my family’s heart and is very much needed for people with special needs and learning disabilities.

For more details about the scheme, visit the Growing Together website HERE

The scheme is also looking for volunteers. You can get in touch via email on [email protected] or on 07984 249658.

You can donate to the fundraising campaign HERE