Guernsey Mencap has received a grant of £21,489 over three years from Lloyds Bank Foundation for the Channel Islands, in order to assist with the funding of additional respite accommodation for its clients.
The flat, which is in a quiet location with two bedrooms and a sensory garden balcony, allows islanders with learning disabilities to spend time away from home, in a comfortable and suitable environment, allowing both them and their carers an independent break.
Guernsey Mencap is a local charity which supports and 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 GROW (Guernsey Rural Occupational Working).
While the charity has funded the flat for a few years, much of the charity’s funds were being directed towards the running of that respite accommodation. The Lloyds Bank Foundation’s funding means Guernsey Mencap can now work on building its own fund-raising facility with the aim of eventually becoming self-sufficient.
Commenting on the grant, 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, Lloyds Bank Foundation also commented:
“We are delighted to assist Guernsey Mencap in offering vital services and support on island for people with a learning difficulty. We hope that it 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.”
