Ruby’s Fund
New specialist hoist supports those with disability
After her daughter Ruby was born and diagnosed with a rare chromosome disorder, Alison Parr identified a gap in support for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and their families. So, she founded Ruby’s Fund. And now, this award-winning charity supports 2,000 families (including children and carers) each year in Cheshire East.
The Trustees of the Axis Foundation, recognising the excellent work of the charity, awarded Ruby’s Fund £4964.79 to cover the purchase and installation costs of a new tracking hoist in the disabled toilet at their centre.
“I was delighted to hear we have been awarded the grant to allow us to fit a hoist in our disabled bathroom. It will make such a difference to the families who require specialist support, such as hoisting, and we will proudly show them the hoist when it is installed. On behalf of Ruby’s Fund, the staff, volunteers and the families we support, thank you. We appreciate your generosity and kindness” – Alison Parr, Founder, Operations and Impact Manager – and Ruby’s mum
More about Ruby’s Fund
Ruby’s Fund’s overall aim is to provide early help for families of young children with SEND to ensure they stay well and avoid reaching crisis point: to help them thrive, be happy and feel part of a bigger family. High quality facilities at Ruby’s Fund centre include a café, a sensory room with hoist, soft play area, siblings’ play room, a sensory garden and changing room with hoist. The centre benefited 6,000 visitors in 2023.
They also offer outreach sessions at partner venues and onboard their mobile sensory bus. The dedicated team offers person-centred support to disadvantaged and vulnerable children and families; improving their quality of life and wellbeing.
Feedback highlights
• 95% of parents said Ruby’s Fund has improved their overall sense of wellbeing
• 100% of parents felt ‘listened to’ by Ruby’s staff
• 66% of parents felt Ruby’s Fund support had prevented them seeking crisis support from their GP
• 93% of parents felt better informed on how to be a good parent carer
• 100% of parents would recommend Ruby’s Fund support services to other parent carers.
There’s more about their work here
