FAMILIES with children who have Down's syndrome are in desperate need of funding to keep a lifeline support service up and running.

Parents, grandparents and guardians are appealing for sponsors and public help to continue a potentially life-changing educational group for children with the condition.

Together 21 is a three-month project based in the Newton Aycliffe-based Pioneering Care Centre, which has been running since April.

However, the vital service, which provides invaluable development to children from birth to 17-years-old from across the region, will close at the end of July.

Maggie Hart, a specialist consultant for Together 21, said: "This is incredibly important because as a parent it is a frightening time when you get that diagnosis and you feel alone and isolated.

"For our children who come regularly it's a lifeline and it's normality.

"It also provides information and support for parents and other family members."

Together 21, named as a nod to the additional chromosome 21 that people with Down's syndrome have, was set up following the closure of the Education Centre for Children Down's Syndrome which began in 2005 but was forced to fold in February due to a lack of funding.

The three month project was designed to allow time to secure funding for a more permanent service.

It currently runs two sessions a week supporting 35 children and their families - on Fridays for children from birth to the age of four, and on Saturdays for youngsters aged between five and 17.

Karen Grundy, programme manager, said: "The Friday group is all about getting them ready for school because the majority go into main stream schools. We want to give them the best start."

Among those who use the service is Beth Trenerry, 31, of Consett, whose baby Luna was diagnosed before her birth in December.

She said: "Initially I talked to the other mums and just seeing the children with Down's syndrome, how well they were doing and what to do to help them was what we wanted to do with Luna. It would be a big loss for Luna's future if it doesn't continue."

Group leaders hope not only to secure the current set-up for the future but wish to expand.

But with £2,500 required to cover the costs of each child annually, staff and parents first need to secure almost £90,000 to fund the existing members for the next year.

Ms Grundy added: "It would be absolutely devastating for the parents and children (if the service ended) because there is nothing else like it here."

  • To sponsor or to make a donation towards continuing Together 21 call Ms Grundy at the Pioneering Care Centre on 01325-321234.