Reach Learning Disability, which supports those with learning disabilities in Mansfield, is urging people to support its Big Give Christmas Challenge, where donations are doubled through match funding.

Carers manager Catherine said: “Every day I see the impact that financial worry is having on the health and wellbeing of people with learning disabilities and their families in Nottinghamshire.

“That’s why Reach is again taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge to raise the funds we need to support people and make your gift go further. The Christmas Challenge can make your donation worth twice as much. So, for example, £50 becomes worth £100.

“Even before the cost-of-living crisis, people with learning disabilities were paying more for things like medications, energy, and transport. Imagine worrying about the running costs of your son’s CPAP machine, which helps him breathe at night. Or maybe you need extra help to remember how to shop and cook economically. For some, it is going to be a long, hard winter with worries about even more cost-of living increases.

“But there is hope. Every week our centre teams support over 200 adults with learning disabilities to gain vital life skills including managing money. For example, by helping people to learn how to cook healthily on a budget.”

One Reach user, Sarah (pictured) from Reach’s base in Southwell, said: “Using the one pot cooking has helped save me time and money.”

Catherine added: “For family carers we’re on hand to explore ways to cover the additional costs of caring for someone with a disability. As one Mansfield carer who I’ve recently worked with told me, “I don’t feel as worried about the future anymore”.”

Only donations made to the Christmas Challenge between 29^th November and 6^th December can be doubled. Visit www.reachuk.org to make your donation and to find out more.