Student helps Harrogate charity Henshaws fundraiser reach target

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Fifty Miles More was launched in March to raise vital funds for people living with sight loss and other disabilities. Participants were asked to walk or run 50 miles in March or to add a further 50 miles to their usual routine.

Among those taking part is Henshaws Specialist College student Flora Nelson who has already raised nearly £1,500, helping the running total to reach £7,000, and becoming the top fundraiser to date.

Flora’s parents, Sally and David, said: “When people ask Flora if she likes college, she beams a smile and says an emphatic “yes!’ This is one of the very few words she is able to vocalise, but at Henshaws that is not a problem. Students learn to be as independent and as empowered as possible, to live full and rich lives.

“Flora’s time at Henshaws has been life-changing. The care and education she receives is outstanding. Henshaws supports some of the most vulnerable young adults in our region at a key time in their lives and we want to help the charity to secure that provision in future years.

“That’s why we are fundraising, and also why we have chosen an activity in which Flora can take an equal part.”

Four members of staff at the College, Billy Hunter, Laura Hartley, Sara Norton, Joanna Currie and Liz Womack, are also taking part.

The challenge is also being supported by Berwins Solicitors. Gayle Waring said: “I learnt about the fantastic work of Henshaws through my role at Berwins Solicitors, who I’m pleased to say chose Henshaws as their official charity of the year in 2020 and are continuing to support throughout 2021. A great challenge for a great cause.”

Henshaws will be repeating its successful Henshaws Hundreds challenge this June. For more details see www.henshawshundreds.org.uk

Factfile: Henshaws charity, Harrogate

Henshaws Specialist College is a transformational place. Through our personalised approach to education, learning and care we empower children and young people living with a disability to progress and live life the way they want.

Whether preparing for employment, making friends or learning to live more independently, we enable our students to make their aspirations possible and goals a reality.

Students follow an individual study programme to develop their independence, communication, personal and social skills.

Henshaws welcomes both residential and day students.

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