Rainbow Stars Receive Charity Donation

Rainbow Stars, a charity based in Sleaford, are a volunteer-led support group specialising in assisting families with members with additional needs, particularly those with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

To help the Lincolnshire charity provide their much needed activities we were delighted to be able to donate over £1,800, after we undertook an employee survey and stated that for every one completed, we would donate £2 to the charity. And, with a total of 907 employees completing the survey, a donation of £1,814 has been made.

The charity founder, Jane Peck, established the group over 12 years ago and has seen it grow from single numbers to helping thousands of people every year.

She was overwhelmed with the donation, stating it would make a huge difference to those who attend the group and said, “I can’t believe it, that amount is just brilliant, thank you so much.”

Jane explained that a lot of their members have learnt to cook and bake at the group, and quite often the meal they prepare whilst there is the one good meal they have that day.

“It’s come at a very good time as a lot of our members enjoy cooking but the funding we receive to buy the food ingredients is coming to an end, so this money will help us continue to provide this enjoyable activity and essential skill for those who need it.”, added Jane.

The group caters for people aged from 3 to 80 years old and provides a wide range of activities including cooking, arts and crafts, bingo, live music events, swimming, cinema outings, roller blading and attending community events. They also have a Changing Places changing room, sensory room and provide 1:1 sessions at the weekends so families can come and try the facilities to help with any transitions.

Jane said, “The friendships that have been created through the group have been brilliant, we are just like one big family. Everyone gets involved and helps out and we are even training up some of our members to take on more responsibilities that will help with their independence and achieving their life goals.”

Another area the money will be used for is to provide arts and crafts materials which offer a variety of sensory experiences as they allow members to explore and experience the different textures and materials.

Steve Bromley, Partnership Director, said, “We have had a very good relationship with the group for a number of years now and it is an absolute pleasure to donate this money to them as I know it will be put to good use and benefit the group’s members.

“Rainbow Stars are an institution in Sleaford, they do a huge amount of good work and have helped a lot of people in the community, so it is great for us to be able to help them out.”

Rainbow Stars are based on Watergate in Sleaford and are open daily from 9.30am-2.30pm (except Thursdays) and most evenings for activities. To learn more or to get in touch, please visit their website https://rainbowstarslincs.co.uk/