42 families were able to meet Father Christmas and receive presents for the children at the grotto, hosted by Coping with CHAOS in West Moors, and funded by a donation from OnBuy.com.

Short breaks coordinator at Diverse Abilities, Amy Topp, said, “I am really proud of the team for pulling together this grotto for the children. We made many precautions to ensure the whole process was fully COVID-secure for both our staff and the families we support.

“It was truly heart-warming to see all the children enjoy something we initially thought would be impossible this year. We received loads of great feedback from the children and their parents alike.”

Coping with CHAOS and Project My Time support children aged up to 18 with additional needs, and their families, through play sessions during the school holidays, family sessions, advice and guidance for parents, and weekend clubs for children and their siblings.

OnBuy’s CEO, Cas Paton, added, “We take pride in supporting our community, so it’s great to be able to give back to organisations on our doorstep here in Poole. Christmas should be a magical time for all children and I’m really pleased that we’ve been able to play a part in creating some magic for the families supported by Diverse Abilities.

“The pandemic has had such an impact on not-for-profit organisations. It’s going to be crucial, for those of us who can, to really dig deep in the coming years and help charitable causes so that they can continue supporting those who need it most.”
Visit diverseabilities.org.uk to find out more about the charity and its work.