Guernsey Mencap has received a donation of £21,489 over three years to fund a flat suitable for such vital breaks.
The two bedroom accommodation is in a quiet location and has a sensory garden balcony. It allows islanders with learning disabilities to spend time away from home in a comfortable and suitable environment, affording both them and their carers independent respite.
While Mencap has funded the flat for a few years, much of the charity’s funds were being directed towards the running of the accommodation. The Lloyds Bank Foundation’s funding means Guernsey Mencap can now work on building its own fund-raising facility with the aim ofeventually becoming self-sufficient.
Peter Fernandez, Committee Member, Guernsey Mencap said: “We are so grateful to Lloyds Bank Foundation for their grant which makes such a difference to us as a charity and our clients. Not only does it allow our essential respite accommodation to keep going for anyone who needs it, but it means we can plan for the future of the charity. It’s so important that our clients have opportunities to live fulfilled and independent lives, and this certainly helps us achieve that aim.”
Jo Le Poidevin, Executive Director of the Lloyds Bank Foundation, said; “We hope this assistance helps the charity to achieve its aspirations to offer further opportunities for respite for carers and for clients to experience independent living, as well as becoming financially self-sufficient.”
Guernsey Mencap provides a voice for adults with learning disabilities. Working in partnership with the States of Guernsey, the charity helps people with everything in daily life, including gaining work experience and practical skills through its separate charity Guernsey Rural Occupational Working (GROW).