“Lifeline” organisation receives significant funding boost
12th July 2021
West Essex based disability charity Accuro (Care Services) have been awarded £20,000 from the independent charitable trust Essex Community Foundation (ECF).
The funding, which comes from the Essex Coronavirus Response and Recovery Programme, will be used by the charity to help with the additional costs associated with tackling COVID-19, keeping clubs and services safe and the R rate low.
The charity provides social and leisure opportunities for children, young people and adults with a disability across West Essex, enabling members to make friends, build confidence and self-esteem and develop life skills.
During the national lockdowns and while restrictions were in place, Accuro had to suspend face to face services, quickly taking to online sessions via Zoom and support calls over the phone, keeping members connected with friends from their clubs and the Accuro team.
In a recent survey of its members and their families, the charity found that while the online provisions during the national lockdown were well received, members were keen to return to in-person clubs and services when it was safe to do so.
Accuro’s Operations Manager Alison McKeown commented, “At Accuro, we aim to reduce loneliness and social isolation among people with a disability and to do this, the provision of in-person services is incredibly important.
“The additional costs associated with keeping our clubs and services safe and operational at this time are significant, so we were thrilled to be awarded this funding. This grant will help us to provide essential equipment and training, ensuring the safety of our members, staff and volunteers.
“As in-person clubs and services return, this funding will enable Accuro to help keep people safe and be able to continue providing in person COVID-secure activities and new projects outside including a walking group for adults.
Andy Payne Worpole, Head of Programmes at ECF, said: “During the pandemic Accuro quickly moved their sessions online, providing virtual activities as well as emotional support. This was a lifeline for their members during a very difficult time and we are pleased to support Accuro as they take the first steps to resume their normal activities.”
To find out more about Accuro (Care Services), please visit www.accuro.org.uk
SUPPORT ECF’S ACORN FUND CHALLENGE and help local charities like Accuro.
ECF is running the ‘Acorn Fund Challenge’, appealing for donations and matching them on a 2 to 1 basis. This means that for every £2 received, ECF will add £1, and if Gift Aid can be claimed, it nearly doubles the value of donations.
- Give online through: https://justgiving.com/campaign/ECFAcorn
- To give by card over the phone call us on 01245 355947
- Send a cheque to Essex Community Foundation at 121 New London Road, Chelmsford CM2 0QT.
- Speak to us if you want to make a donation by bank transfer or to set up a regular gift
- For more information email perry@essexcf.org.uk