Last updated: 13 July 2023
Previously: 15 August 2022
Aside from Hafannedd, Barry’s main business (which he set up in 2003 with his partner, Martin) is a successful branded merchandise company called Love Your Logo based in Dorking, Surrey. For over 11 years, they’ve supported a wonderful charity in Guildford called Challengers.
Established in 1979 by founders Colin Hassell and Dr Helen Foley MBE, the Charity is committed champions of inclusion. For over 40 years, thousands of disabled children and youngsters have been able to play, smile and laugh as a result of the activities organised by Challengers.
As Barry comments, “When Nikki and I took over as owners of Hafannedd last July (2021), we were keen to extend Love Your Logo's support to North Wales. Last year, we auctioned a weekend stay in the Cottage which raised more than £800. This year we’ve done the same and the lucky bidder alone, pledged £600. We were unbelievably chuffed and look forward to continuing our partnership with Disability Challengers.”
Challengers - some background
“A world where all children and young people can play together, freely.”
Back in 1979, the founders of Challengers wanted to give disabled children somewhere to have fun since many just didn’t have that opportunity. From its inception, Challengers has provided youngsters with the opportunity to enjoy themselves whilst having fun in a safe environment, as often as possible.
Covering the South East of England, the Charity helps and supports those aged 2 - 18 years at its pre-schools, play schemes and youth schemes. Disabled children and young people can totally immerse themselves in a safe environment and play with their friends. The positive effect not only benefits them but their carers too.
No-one can underestimate the value of charities such as Challengers. For those caring for a disabled child the responsibility is huge and it’s no exaggeration to say that Challengers is a lifeline to parents. The Play and Youth schemes enable parents to enjoy regular respite care and crucially, relax knowing their child is having fun and is being cared for by trained staff. These time-outs give families the opportunity to regroup and remain strong.
As we all know, children learn through play. It aids the development of cognitive, physical and social skills as well as improving mental wellbeing. Play is an experience many of us have taken for granted whilst growing up. It’s a sad reality, but there are many factors restricting our disabled children such as physical impairments, lack of accessible play facilities, time, cash and support. Challengers is breaking down these barriers and offers a truly inclusive experience so no matter how complex the child’s needs, activities will be adapted to suit and friendships will be made.
Did you know?
According to a 2019 study by SCOPE* it costs a family with a disabled child £583 extra a month, on average, to have the same standard of living as a child with a non-disabled child. That figure is even greater for 20% of families and can be in excess of £1,000 a month.
This is why we want to support Challengers. It costs the Charity £180 to provide just one day of play which includes both staff training and specialist equipment. It quite rightly believes that play should be accessible for all and families are only asked to provide a small contribution. The figures speak for themselves which is why we are so proud to be helping when and where we can.
*Scope Report, Disability Price Tag 2019
