We are rowing to raise funds for Leeds Mencap.

Fundraisers: Rosie Newton, David Hardcastle, Helen Golson, Ashley Airey. 

Why are we supporting this charity? 

Leeds Mencap is a completely independent charity that was created by and for, people in Leeds with learning disabilities. They provide essential support, advice and care to over 250 children and adults with learning disabilities, along with their families and carers per week.  They do this through a range of activities such as the Hawthorn Specialist Nursery for very young children with special needs, through social groups for children and young adults, sibling support, holiday play schemes and, parent and carer support groups. They make a difference because they work with families at any point along their journey, not only improving the life experience of the person with a learning disability but recognising the impact on the whole family and providing support, guidance and practical help.

The new Vinery Centre

In early April, Leeds Mencap moved into a fabulous new centre, The Vinery Centre, in East Leeds. The centre has given them more space and this brings new opportunities. They’ll be able to expand their services and help many more children and adults with learning disabilities across Leeds. They currently have waiting lists for all their services and were unable to do more in their previous building.

The new centre will also provide much needed space for local community groups to run activities and meet and have a community nursery for local children and families. The community nursery is much needed as there is a desperate shortage of places for children in the area. The new centre will place Leeds Mencap on a firmer and more sustainable financial footing for the future. 

Our target 

In 2016 we want to raise a minimum of £30,000 to purchase play equipment for the new playground at the Hawthorn Specialist Nursery.

We are very grateful for all donations and thank you for your support of this incredibly worthwhile cause.