A MUM has backed a festive funding appeal to help a Newport children’s centre provide support for disabled children and their families.

Gwent’s children’s charity Sparkle launched the appeal to help hundreds of children affected by a disability or developmental difficulty.

The charity, which funds and supports the Serennu Children’s Centre in Newport, has to raise at least £500,000 every year to continue its work and without the support and generosity of local people, particularly at Christmas, this would not be possible.

Mum Claire Barton, of St Dials, Cwmbran, is backing the appeal after seeing the benefits on her daughter Cerys who has used centre for four years.

The 10-year-old has Down’s syndrome and the centre provides her with a routine, activities and the chance to make new friends, Ms Barton said.

“She’s always really happy when I pick her up she doesn’t want to leave.The staff are also incredible and would do anything to help and some of them are amazing for their young age.

“It would be a massive shame if it was to be lost. She would lose the continuity and all her friends and it wouldn’t be good at all.”

She added: “It benefits many families and gives the children a feeling of belonging.”

Around 500 children with conditions such as Down’s syndrome, cerebral palsy and autism visit the centre weekly for treatment, support and care.

It is the only facility of its kind in the UK where children and families can access medical and holistic services from under one roof including doctors, therapists, nurses, psychologists, social workers, family liaison officers, play workers, clubs and support groups.

Sparkle trustee, Noel Davies, said: “Life isn’t easy for many of these children but with Sparkle’s support we are able to provide them with the care and opportunities they need.

“Yet without the generosity and support of local people and businesses this would not be possible.

“That is why we have launched our christmas fundraising appeal to raise vital funds so that we can continue providing the care, support and services we provide to these very special children.

“We hope that as many local people and businesses support the campaign as possible. Whatever the size of their donations they truly will be helping transform the lives of local children.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/sparkleappeal or text STAR02 followed by a donation sum to 70070.