Don’t forget the millions with disabilities (From York Press)

Don’t forget the millions with disabilities

12:32pm Monday 3rd September 2012 in Letters By Reader's letter

The Paralympics have come home and they look like being the most successful and well-attended Games ever. Our Paralympians are deservedly getting a world stage for their achievements.

But let’s not forget the millions more with disabilities and those who care for them.

They confront hurdles of a different kind every day – hurdles of financial hardship, social isolation, ill health, depression and despair.

They perform their own quiet heroics, day in, day out, with little recognition and even less support. Disabled people and their carers remain among the most disenfranchised and vulnerable members of society.

I work for Vitalise, a charity that provides desperately needed respite breaks for disabled people and carers at centres around the UK. Our breaks are a lifeline, enabling guests to restore their ability to cope and rediscover their will to carry on.

I would like to ask readers to join us in calling for greater recognition and support for people with disabilities and carers.

We don’t get a penny from government, but rely on the compassion and generosity of our supporters.

To make a donation or for more information phone 0303 303 0147 or visit vitalise.org.uk

Colin Brook, Vitalise Upper Street London N1.