As Together 21 (T21) head towards their final session of 2021, the group wanted to give you an update on their extremely busy year, in the hardest circumstances! As the pandemic landscape continues to change, T21 have continued to support our members and their families.
"We hope you and your families are keeping safe and well in these extraordinary times.
After spending most of the year continuing to work online, we are glad to say we are back!"
Since October, T21 restarted face-to-face sessions at their wonderful home, the Pioneering Care Centre, Newton Aycliffe.
Due to many of T21 'Tiddlypeeps' being high risk, they have had to take extra precautions to ensure everyone is safe, therefore are unable to do large gatherings and are keeping groups small. Staff designed learning packs that are allowing families to continue to support their 'peeps' at home. They have also created a 'Friends of T21 group' for those who due to circumstances are unable to return to group right now, but still need T21's vital support.
In terms of fundraising... T21 have been super busy and have had greatly appreciated support!
The wonderful Hewitts Solicitors who have managed to raise a staggering £6000 this year and are currently working on their 12 days of giving event!
Friends the North East chapter of the Sporting Bears Motor Club, recently raised £3641.96 at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show - a three day event at the NEC Birmingham!
Local businesses have generously donated goods and services for inhouse raffles, helping raise hundreds of pounds!
Community and Church Groups have supported with crafted items and selection boxes for the children.
Amazing friends at The Darlington Lions generously funded a whole day ‘Animals about Town’ experience. This welcomed members back to the Centre, helping reacclimatize them to meeting in a group, boosting confidence and providing a sensory experience to all!
They've also made new friends and are proud to announce that the Widows Sons Masonic Biker’s Association will be supporting T21 next year! They have already met the T21 gang, providing a fantastic bike experience!
T21 would like to give a huge thank you to: Tesco Extra Newton Aycliffe, the Moveable Feast, Rainbows Sensory Space Ltd, Tynemouth Aquarium, Birdlet Bakery, Deep Kneads Therapy, the Sensory Spot, Nebula Beauty and many more! Watch this space, 2022 is going to be exciting!
In other news …. the amazing work from T21 staff during the Pandemic was presented at the World Down syndrome Congress Dubai 2021 (Online Event) by the groups very own fantastic Education Consultant Maggie Hart MA, Ed. She shared experiences and how they moved online and developed home learning packs. Creating an online curriculum for families to help keep 'Tiddlys' on track, how they had utilised social media to create a platform of support for both Children and Parents and they also supported some schools with ideas and some online sessions .
T21 have had yet more families contact us, including school age children, and are constantly looking to find ways to grow to ensure no family goes without support.
Everyone in PCP projects and services are so proud of how this once little project has weathered the storm and would like to thank you for being a vital part of that support!
Communities and businesses joining together and making a difference to so many lives.
"We think of you all as part of the T21 family and therefore wanted to wish you and yours a very special Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Love and Lots of 'Christmassy' Stuff
Jo, Maggie, Nigel and All the Staff and Volunteers of T21 x"
For your Information…
T21's Fundraising page has changed due to Virgin Giving folding, and now have a fundraising page on Wonderful.Org
They have also joined The Giving Machine, which raise free funds as you shop and all from this PCP account goes direct to our project!
See what we do by watching our video on You Tube.