A GROUP that provides activities for young people with learning difficulties is on the hunt for more volunteers.
Teesdale Opportunities for Disabled Youngsters (TODYS) was started in 2000 when Joan Bailey arrived in the dale to find the area lacked provision for young disabled children.
Prior to lockdown the group ran weekly sessions at The Hub, in Barnard Castle.
The group caters for about 17 young people, however, since restrictions have been relaxed the regular sessions, which included trips out, have been unable to resume due to a lack of volunteers.
Mrs Bailey said: “We are desperate for volunteers. We had hoped to restart in January, but couldn’t get enough volunteers to commit to supporting at weekly meetings.
“We need a minimum of three responsible adults at every session.
“Three of our long-standing volunteers are continuing to shield. Another is out of action and is unable to drive and not all of our volunteers can do every session.”
The sessions include arts and crafts and help the youngsters build confidence and ability to communicate.
Mrs Bailey said the weekly meet-ups have been sorely missed by members.
Parent Alex Johnson, who also volunteers with the group, says the experience is very rewarding.
She added: “We have some fantastic young people with additional needs who live in our dale.
“It’s such a privilege and rewarding experience to volunteer for TODYS, to be able to support these young people on their journey of developing their social and independent living skills, but most importantly having fun with them along the way.”
Sarah Dent, a learning disabilities nurse, began volunteering with TODYS when she was a sixth form student at Teesdale School.
Ms Dent, now a learning disabilities nurse, added: “Volunteering at TODYS really helped me develop my awareness of what a ‘learning disability’ was and helped me to develop my communication skills and confidence.
“Being part of TODYS is what sparked my interest in caring for people with learning disabilities and this is what guided me to studying Learning Disability Nursing at university.”
Anyone who is interested in volunteering should contact Mrs Bailey on 07747 392936 or email todys-secretary@hot mail.co.uk.
