Reach Learning Disability is again taking part in the Big Give Christmas Challenge — a national matched-funding campaign where donations to charity can be doubled for one week.

The Nottinghamshire charity, which has bases in Mansfield, Southwell and Newark, aims to raise £40,000 towards its work to support people with learning disabilities and help their families to plan for the future.

Its Brighter Futures appeal through the Big Give Christmas Challenge runs from 28th November to 5th December.

Money raised will go towards vital life-skills courses for adults with learning disabilities, and expert support for families worried about the coming years.

Maria Williams, Reach Mansfield Centre manager, said: “For adults with learning disabilities, thinking about the future can be a sensitive topic, made more difficult by financial challenges, and knowing how to start exploring possible options.

“At Reach we create a supportive environment where adults with learning disabilities can gain vital new lifeskills that support their own individual aspirations.

“At the same time our carers manager can help families see the wood for the trees and make better informed decisions.”

Ben enjoys attending Reach Mansfield and his mother, Tracey, added: “Reach has made a huge difference to Ben, and I can recognise the difference between when he first joined Reach back in 2015 compared to now.

“He loves coming to all his sessions and I feel I’ve found the best place for him.

“I think of Reach as part of a family, and they listen to me about how to meet Ben’s needs and ensure we adapt things to suit him.”

To support Reach’s Brighter Futures appeal and get donations doubled, visit https://biggive.org/christmas-challenge from 12noon on 28th November to 12noon on 5th December and search for Reach Learning Disability.  Alternatively, go to www.reachuk.org for more details.

For an email reminder from Reach, people can contact Laura on [email protected] or 01636 819066.

More information about the Christmas Challenge, including a short explanatory video, can be found at www.thebiggive.org.uk