THERE was double delight for a Solihull charity which was handed almost £100,000 and it was rated ‘good’ in a recent inspection.
SoLO Life Opportunities has had a boost for its weekend social club thanks to a £94,490 grant over three years from BBC Children in Need.
The weekend social club, called Fun Factory, provides a much-needed and trusted social space for children with special needs to play and interact.
The charity supports more than 1,300 vulnerable people in the borough – many who have severe learning and physical disabilities.
Senior manager from SoLO Margaret Sheikh stated: “This is brilliant news as we were in danger of closing Fun Factory in March next year and this will ensure it continues to support those families caring for severely disabled children.
“It will also give additional opportunities for overnight residentials – which are often closed to these children due to their complex needs.”
In another positive development, SoLO’s Personal Assistant Service, which supports people with a learning disability who have an adult social care budget to get out and about in the community, has had a glowing report from national watchdog the Care Quality Commission (CQC).
The report has rated SoLO as ‘Good’ against every standard and states ‘People’s relatives told us their family members were safe when they were supported by their personal assistants’.
One relative said: “I trust them 100 per cent. They know him really well and I’m confident he is safe in their care. I wouldn’t let anyone else look after him.”
Senior manager from SoLO Paul Burnham who is responsible for the PA service: “In the current climate where there are many horror stories regarding adult social care, it is great to know that our service has been validated by CQC and people can trust us to keep their loved ones safe and happy.”
