A CHARITY group aiming to provide services for people with learning disabilities has been launched at a special event, by its patron Eddie Butler.

Synergy Wales (Cyfle Cymru) was officially launched earlier this month (December 6) during an evening of entertainment at Llanwern High School.

Formerly protest group SOS Newport, Synergy has been set up to help bridge care service shortfalls as a result of cutbacks by Newport City Council.

During the event, Sheila Parsons, chairman of the new charity, took to the stage along with co-founder Simon Harvey to give an emotional speech on the journey the group took from ‘protest to provider’.

Mr Butler also spoke, as did guest Jonathan Griffiths, head of adult integrated services at Newport City Council.

Mr Griffths said: “Facing an uncertain future, holding dialogue and working with organisations such as Synergy Wales will help shape a different service for adults with learning disabilities.”

Mr Butler added: “Synergy Wales is about taking individuals and unearthing their inner talents and watching them grow.

“It will unlock this potential in everyone, through new and exciting projects.”

The event also featured a charity auction, which raised £1,500 on the night.

Music was provided by the Llanwern School Choir with soloists Chloe Channing and Jamie Bull, while Ben Powell brought the evening to a close.

Mr Harvey, who joined the group in support of brother-in-law Nigel Atkins, a William syndrome-sufferer, called it a “massive success”.

Synergy will help adults and children to develop new skills and independence in a secure supportive environment, while also providing respite for their families.

For more information or to make a donation see www.synergywales.com

They are also at facebook/synergywales