explaining the aims and achievements of Miracles to Believe in. BACKGROUND - In September 2000, a new Unit for children with Autism, was opened at Newbold Verdon Primary School in Leicestershire. The Unit provides places for 12 children, and was required due to an increase in children who needed specialist educational help and care - which only this type of Unit could enable.
In February 2001, Miracles to Believe in was founded by the parents of children attending the Newbold Verdon Autism Unit, as a means of raising funds for the purchase of useful equipment, neccesary facilities and excursions that would be beneficial and relevant to them, and which would not be provided in any other way. In Sept. 2003, Miracles became a fully registered charity.
AIMS & OBJECTIVES - To aid the plight of children with Autism, and to further their education in the Leicestershire area - and the wider Midlands area. This is done by providing equipment, facilities, excursions and funding additional tuition. We seek to achieve this by raising funds to pay for items - or by any other means. It is recognised that without Nicholas Martin's help in fundraising the charity would cease to exist. Almost 95% of the charity's funding has come from the organ and music world that Nick has performed in front of.
IMMEDIATE & SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES - At Newbold Verdon Primary School a sensory room has been set-up, which provides both relaxation and stimulation for the autistic children attending the school unit. Also lap-top computers, an interactive White-Board and over £3500 of outdoor play equipment has been acquired.
In early 2003, the Newbold Unit staff identified a need for a Soft-Play Room at the school, and suggested how such a facility could be installed. The plan entailed converting the room occupied by the boys' toilets (and also making alternative adequate provision!). Building work on the room commenced in Aug. 2003 - during the summer holiday period. The whole project was completed and ready for use by Easter 2004. It was officially opened on Sept. 23rd, 2004 by Local County Councillor, Peter Winkless and his Consort. This new facility is quite invaluable. It offers a room where the children can play, exercise or have individual 'time out'. The School Governors and Local Education Authority totally supported the Project. Miracles to Believe in undertook to raise the complete funding of this venture - ultimately costing over £36,000.
THE FUTURE - Miracles to Believe in will continue to raise funds to provide and enhance facilities for children with Autism. Infact anyone can apply to the charity for funding for anything to do with the battle against autism. All such applications are fully vetted by the charity committee before funding is permitted.
The increasing number of children who are diagnosed with autism has not been matched by a corresponding increase in funding for educational or other facilities - and we recognise that there will be an indefinite, ongoing need for the charity: Miracles to Believe in.
For further details please feel free to contact - Nick or Marianne Martin
