A CHARITY caring for children and adults in Dorset has received a generous £2,500 grant to help fund a new service to support the siblings of children with disabilities.

Diverse Abilities launched the STARs service earlier this year, which stands for Supportive, Thoughtful And Resilient, a 12-week programme of support, advice and activities for children aged between eight and 16.

It aims to reduce the pressure they are under by providing an environment where they can access support and advice as well as take part in activities and make friends.

In a virtual ceremony, the charity received a donation from the Maximus Foundation UK, a not-for-profit enterprise committed to supporting charities that have been nominated by Maximum employees.

Clare Rochford, children's team manager at Diverse Abilities, said: "We are so pleased to receive this donation from Maximus Foundation UK which will help us to deliver STARS.

"This is something we have always wanted to offer and evidence suggests that there is now an even greater need to support siblings' mental health due to the effects of lockdown."

Di Briggs, chair of Maximus Foundation UK said: "Many small charities across the UK face the challenge of resuming their normal activities after a very difficult period.

"So we're delighted to help Diverse Abilities to extend their range of much-needed services in the Dorset area."

for more information on Diverse Abilities, visit www.diverseabilities.org.uk