2024-03-15 15:00:21
Learning disabled adults take on world’s fastest zip wire to raise money for local friendship service
A group of learning disabled adults from Cheshire and Merseyside are preparing to take on the world’s fastest zip wire to raise money for a local friendship service run by learning disability charity Hft. With the support of Hft and generous donations, the group is determined to make this opportunity one that’s accessible to everyone.
So much so that Hft’s CEO, Steve Veevers, is going along for the ride! Says Steve: “As the new Chief Executive Officer at Hft, I’m privileged to be able to raise the profile of the amazing work of the Luv2meetU groups, the social care sector and help create a future where learning disabled people can live the best life possible, in a kind and inclusive community.
“I decided to take on the fastest zip line in the world to help support our amazing charity – I’m going to need a lot of courage for the big day!”
The group of six, together with Steve, hope to complete the challenge in May at Zip World’s Velocity in North Wales where they will travel 1555 metres above Penrhyn Quarry, reaching speeds of up to 125mph.
The group, who all attend Hft’s friendship service, Luv2meetU which operates in Liverpool, Chester and Ellesmere Port, were initially inspired by 22-year-old Harry who first approached Hft’s Community Connector Louise Devlin with the idea towards the end of last year. He thought this would be a good opportunity to raise money for the service which encourages learning disabled adults to learn new skills, make connections and engage in their local community.
This challenge is not out of the ordinary for adrenaline-seeker Harry who has previously scaled the heights of Great Orme in Llandudno and faced a different but equally terrifying fear of singing on stage in front of hundreds of people.
Harry says, “I’ve always talked about doing the zip wire but never managed to make it happen… until now! I’m feeling excited about the experience and opportunity. I feel good at the moment but that might change on the day!”
Louise immediately agreed to help Harry complete this challenge and reach his goal of raising money for Hft. When club members Ben, Andrew and Aidan found out about the challenge, they too were keen to get involved and will join Harry, Louise and newest club member, Callum, in April.
Ben adds, “I’ve never done anything like this before! I’m really excited to be doing it with my Luv2meetU friends.”
In keeping with the charity’s ethos of inclusivity and opening doors to new opportunities, the group has set out to fundraise enough money to cover the expenses for every member to participate. This will also cover costs for staff to support them on the day, ensuring the opportunity is accessible to all.
The group is also hoping that, by encouraging more people to get involved, they will be able to raise even more money for Luv2meetU. The money raised will enable the group to create lifelong memories through future challenges just like this one.
Louise Devlin says, “I feel incredibly fortunate to work as a Community Connector for Hft’s Luv2meetU, empowering adults with autism and learning disabilities to achieve their goals and cultivate meaningful relationships in a safe and inclusive environment.
“I hope that, through this challenge, we will raise vital funds for this invaluable service which enriches the lives of our diverse and charismatic group.”
So far, the group has raised 85% of its total £600 target. If you would like to contribute, please visit the group’s JustGiving page. Steve will be raising money for Hft in general and his JustGiving page can be found here.
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
