2018-09-04 11:25:33

Two staff members at Hft are putting on their running shoes to fund the conversion of an unused bathroom into a much-needed communal area for residents at the charity’s Stonehouse service.

Saskia Bax-Pratt and Clare Mills, both Administrative Assistants at Hft Gloucestershire, are running the Stroud Half Marathon for the charity, which supports adults to live the best life possible.

The seven residents of Hft’s Stonehouse service each have their own flat, but are keen for a social space where they can share meals, watch TV and enjoy communal activities such as arts and crafts. Aiming to raise £1400, the run is set to provide furniture, a TV and other decorative items.

Hft supports over 60 people in Gloucestershire, providing person-centred services ranging from flexible day support to supported living at home – from a few hours a week to 24 hours a day.

Saskia, who has been working for Hft since 2016, was inspired to sign up for the 13 mile run after witnessing first-hand the difference the charity makes to the lives of adults with learning disabilities. Clare joined Hft earlier this year and both women have running experience, with Clare even completing the London Marathon back in 2002.

The two keen runners are hard at work training and are feeling confident ahead of the event on 21 October, despite the recent hot weather making longer runs difficult. Saskia and Clare frequently run around hilly Stroud and are hoping this is strengthening their leg muscles.

Clare said: “Saskia and I are really excited about taking on the challenge of running Stroud Half Marathon in October. Working for Hft has shown us first-hand how important it is to help people with learning disabilities live with more independence and control.”

Charlotte Rue, Hft’s Sporting and Challenge Events Manager, said: “We’re delighted that Saskia and Clare are taking on the Stroud Half Marathon and are cheering our colleagues on every step of the way!

“People with learning disabilities face obstacles that are hard to imagine. We offer people the kind of help, support and encouragement that gives them the chance to find more enjoyment, comfort and satisfaction in life. That can range from adapting their home, to finding someone a job, to helping them make friends.”

To make a donation, please visit Saskia and Clare’s fundraising page.

If you have an idea for a fundraising activity you might like to take on, please email hello@hft.org.uk or complete our Contact Us form for more info on how we can support you.

Notes to editors

For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk

About Hft

Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.

Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.

In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.

Learning disability versus difficulty

A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.

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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk

Location: Hft Gloucestershire