Liverpool charity Stick ‘n’ Step is taking a new approach to raising vital funds so it can continue providing free support and teaching to children suffering with cerebral palsy.
A charity fashion show is being held at the Hard Day’s Night hotel on North John Street this year, and designers and boutiques from all over Merseyside are taking part to help the cause.
They will showcase their collections and from there any sales will be donated to the charity.
Community and events fundraiser, Kerry Roe-ely told JMU Journalism: “We are a charity so we have to raise the funds. We need about £300,000 annually to keep the centre open. We have been lucky that so many people want to be involved in the fashion show and also it’s nice that they’re all from the Liverpool area. I think it’s a cause close to a lot of people’s hearts.”
The Wallasey-based charity was founded in August 2002 by a group of parents who wanted to address the lack of support for children with cerebral palsy in the North West.
Kerry said: “We are the sort of charity that likes to make children’s dreams come true. The children affected by the condition will never be able to walk or talk so we help them achieve anything they want to do. The sessions are completely free to families and they last about two hours.”
The money raised will contribute to the continuation of conductive education. This is a proven, practical and successful approach which provides coping mechanisms and techniques to allow children and adults to learn to manage the difficulties caused by their disability. It helps to increase their confidence and motivation, helping to develop their personality and to feel more positive about their future, plus their ability to lead independent, fulfilled lives.
One of the businesses taking part in the event is dress maker Caroline Oates. She said: “I was approached by the charity to showcase my collections. Anything that will help others or charities is close to my heart especially when it comes to children.”
The other participants in the show are April Boutique, Pop Boutique and Smudge, with the event being sponsored by Weightman’s solicitors and Cheshire-based company, Catalyst.
Kerry added that not only does the charity benefit the children, it also is a massive help to the families. They can relax while their child takes part in the conductive education as well as be supported by other parents who are going through the same experience.