A community hub for children and young people with disabilities and their families has opened in Margate.
For Us Too, which was set up in 2010 by a group of parents and carers, with the aim of improving the lives of disabled youngsters, has taken over the former Charlotte’s Café property at 116 High Street.
The venture has been made possible after an award of £44,000 from the National Lottery ‘Know Your Neighbourhood grant.’
The Hub provides a space to socialise, have a coffee and bring children, as well as providing the opportunity to connect with others, participate in volunteering and have access to general advice and guidance and toy and book libraries.
Chair of Trustees Karan Murphy said: “We are delighted to have been awarded this funding over two years from the National Lottery to fund our project.
“The Community Advice Hub is the brainchild of our head of charity, Anna Syplywczak, who 15 months ago started talking about the idea of a safe place for our Neurodiverse families to meet. A place where they could seek help and advice. A place where families could share experiences without fear of judgement. ‘’
Anna said: ‘’Through this project our experienced team of staff and volunteers aim to empower parents with knowledge and strategies, increase their confidence around their child’s diagnosis and help those seeking support relating to their child’s education, behaviours, and social and emotional issues.
“We welcome families to drop in if they need support or if they would just like someone to talk to in a friendly warm space to combat the cost of living crisis, reduce isolation and increase wellbeing.’’
Margate mayor Cllr Rob Yates officially opened the hub on Saturday, December 9.
He said: “As soon as I walked into For Us Too I was warmly welcomed, the whole space has been transformed from a shop front to an amazing community space, allowing parents and children to relax, whilst being supported by the staff.
“I was lucky to meet some of their brilliant volunteers who understand the importance of information and support for those who need it. Congratulations to Anna and the team for securing the funding.”
The hub is open weekdays 10am – 2pm and will reopen on January 8.
If you would like to know more about Hub email [email protected] or go to www.forustoo.org and the Facebook page.