2023-02-15 12:06:44
Two furry friends make David’s dream come true
Pets are proven to have positive health benefits such as relieving depression and anxiety, lowering stress, and preventing loneliness – something over one third of people with a learning disability feel almost all of the time. This is one reason why David Cottom is thrilled to be welcoming two furry friends into his home thanks to the support of national learning disability charity, Hft.
His new rabbits, glamorously named Coco and Chanel, are the two newest additions to the charity’s residential service in St Neots in Cambridgeshire.
David has always dreamed of having his own pet rabbits to nurture and spend time with. However, this recently seemed unobtainable as Registered Care Home Manger, Dawn Thorpe, explains:
“Due to a number of obstacles, from changes in the team to the significant disruption of the pandemic, David had almost given up hope of ever getting his rabbits.”
However, when his recent application to Hft’s Extra Special Fund was successful, David was finally in a position to purchase Coco and Chanel.
Dawn continues, “Last year, David and his key worker, began to research into all the care needs, costs and responsibilities involved in having rabbits, including which are the friendliest to buy.
“Together, they visited pet shops, spoke to rescue centres and visited a local vet. And now, we’re pleased to say, here they are!”
Hft’s Extra Special Fund is specifically designed to fund grants of up to £1,000, aimed at supporting as many adults with learning disabilities as possible. It is used to enhance the lives of those supported by the charity through activities or experiences, to contribute to items or equipment that make a difference to their quality of life, or to ease the transition to between accommodation.
Dawn concluded, “David is thrilled to have two new furry friends around the house. He is really grateful that he was granted the funds to support his dream.”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
