'Extraordinary' SEND charity celebrates 40 years

A "extraordinary" charity started by a group of mothers is celebrating 40 years of supporting families with children that have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Springboard Opportunity Group was founded in Clevedon in 1986 by parents who were unable to find the support they needed.

The scheme provides play and learning sessions for children with and without diagnosis and offers advice, financial support and workshops to parents, supporting more than 150 families a year.

Somerset mum Rachel said the organisation had been "an extraordinary source of strength" for her and her four-year-old daughter Effie, at a time when mainstream nurseries were "closing their doors" to them.

"After the medical trauma of an infant cancer diagnosis, genetic anomaly and subsequent spinal cord injury and global developmental delay, they have been a steady, reassuring presence, giving us a place where we feel completely safe leaving Effie - no small thing given her complex medical history," Rachel said.

"They never make us feel neurotic, emotional or too much and they always take the time to accommodate every therapy, piece of equipment and unique need Effie has, advocating for her as fiercely as we do ourselves."

Rachel added: "Where mainstream nurseries closed their doors, Springboard opened theirs wide, not only caring for Effie but celebrating her for exactly who she is.

"Springboard Opportunity Group has been an extraordinary source of strength for Effie and for us as her parents."

CEO Ruth Glover said within 40 years the organisation had grown, but its purpose had not changed.

"Our focus is on creating a supportive community where young children with SEND and their families are empowered to thrive," she said.

Ann Pritchard, one of the charity's co-founders, remembered it starting with "the most committed, kind and skilled staff team, along with amazing playroom volunteers, far-sighted trustees and tireless fundraisers and supporters".

"Everyone played their part," she added.

"I wish to thank everyone involved in Springboard past, present and future for their support in ensuring that our modest ambitions are still making a difference."

Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.