Down Syndrome Cheshire has been awarded an amazing £10,000 through SPAR’s Community Cashback initiative.
Founded in 2007, Down Syndrome Cheshire is a local charity supporting 350 individuals of all ages with Down syndrome, and their families, across Cheshire.
The charity provides lifelong support through social, emotional, practical and advocacy services, offering safe spaces, specialist sessions, and inclusive opportunities that empower individuals and strengthen families.
Fiona Drummond, SPAR Company Stores Director at James Hall & Co. Ltd, SPAR’s primary retailer, wholesaler and distributor for the North of England, was proud to attend Down Syndrome Cheshire’s Hub in Northwich to present the cheque to the charity’s Chief Executive Officer Vicky Irwin.
Vicky said: “We are thrilled to receive £10,000 from SPAR. This grant will enable us to provide vital family support at key moments such as diagnosis, starting school, or entering adulthood, and times when many families feel overwhelmed or alone.
“Like many small charities, we face ongoing challenges with funding, rising operational costs, and meeting growing demand. Despite this, our community remains at the heart of everything we do.
“Families of people with Down syndrome are often left out of mainstream support systems. Being part of a team that works to change that and walk alongside families through every stage is incredibly meaningful.”
SPAR Community Cashback returned more popular than ever in its fourth consecutive year and James Hall & Co. Ltd received 1,400 applications from charities and organisations across the North of England.
Nationally, more than 65 charities and local groups have shared a £100,000 grant fund this year, and since Community Cashback launched in 2021, grants have been awarded to nearly 200 organisations, highlighting SPAR’s long-term commitment in supporting local communities.
Fiona said: “It was an absolute pleasure to visit Down Syndrome Cheshire to meet the team and some of the individuals who receive such fantastic support through the charity’s work.
“Hearing first-hand the impact the charity delivers for people who have Down syndrome, and their families, left me completely inspired. I look forward to catching up with Vicky down the line to learn about the developments the funding has enabled.
“Much like the charity, SPAR is rooted in the communities it serves, and this is no different in and around Northwich with stores in Barnton, Davenham, Rudheath, and Wincham. I was proud to represent SPAR, and I am delighted the funding has gone to such a great cause and our first ever winner from Cheshire.”
James Hall & Co. Ltd is a fifth-generation family business which serves a network of independent SPAR retailers and company-owned SPAR stores across Northern England six days a week from its base at Bowland View in Preston.
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