However, thanks to Dorset Freemasons giving a grant of £60,000 to Diverse Abilities charity’s Coping with CHAOS programme, the youngsters – plus their siblings have been able to enjoy activities such as trips out.

Coping with CHAOS offers play sessions, a youth clubs for those aged 13–18, family support service, parent support on Facebook, an equipment, toy, and book lending library, and information and signposting to relevant services.

Last year, the programme supported 222 children from 215 families, and provided 7,775 hours of support.

Clare Rochford, children’s team manager at Diverse Abilities, said, “We’re very grateful to Dorset Freemasons for their generous grant. For many children with severe physical and learning disabilities across the county, our project provides the only chance they get to go out in the holidays and it’s a vital resource not only for the children but also for their parents and siblings.”