When Elsie Normington gave birth to her son, it became clear that little Andrew had a few medical conditions that made it harder for her to access events designed for able-bodied children. Andrew was born with learning disabilities and suffered frequent epileptic fits, which necessitated him wearing a helmet to protect his head. As NDIS care providers on the Gold Coast, we understand how important it is for children to socialise in a safe environment, and of course, while the children are interacting, it provides a natural support group for the parents and carers who have the change to meet others in a similar situation.
Nothing on Offer for Andrew
Andrew is now 38 and lives in a flat supported by carers, but when he was a child, Elsie quickly realised that the groups available were not going to be suitable for Andrew. Based in Inverness in Scotland, Elsie realised that she could help others by setting up a playgroup, and when Andrew was 10, Snap was born. Initially, they met weekly, but it soon grew and runs to this day, although Elsie left the group in good hands five years ago.
A 30-Year Dream
Although she knew Andrew was growing up, she didn’t want to leave this gap for other parents and children, so her dream was born. The original group she set up was utilising shared spaces, such as village halls, and she wanted a purpose-built safe space that no one else could use. She set up the Special Needs Action Project and began fundraising, and this led to the formation of the Elsie Normington Foundation ten years ago as things snowballed and the reality became closer. With a team of volunteers, she was able to undertake various fundraising events, and the group received an amazing £250,000 donation from one incredibly generous supporter.
The Haven Centre
Costing £4.8 million, the Haven Centre is now going to open at the end of a 30-year vision for this amazing mother. All age groups are catered for, with a teenager’s room, art space, play area and even some flats where older children can take some time away from their parents and carers in a respite setting. Speaking about the project, Elsie said, “I won’t personally benefit, and my son won’t benefit, but all the other Andrews in the Highlands will.”
The centre will certainly change the lives of many children and parents living with additional needs and coping with medical treatments on ongoing issues. The local community is delighted with the centre, and lots of parents who hope to attend are thrilled that there is now a safe space for their children to meet and play and for the parents and carers to share and learn while supporting each other.
We would certainly like to wish Elsie and her team all the best for their opening day and acknowledge how important this facility is for so many people in the Inverness area—well done, Elsie!