We are delighted to announce that The Dorset Children’s Foundation has received Big Lottery Funding of £9,100 to support Paddy’s Purpose, a children’s workshop designed to break down the barriers about disability, designed and run by Gemma Cardona and her son Paddy. 

Patsy Hallmey Co-Founder of The DCF said: ‘Receiving this award is a mark of the quality of the work Gemma and Paddy are doing in our community, they are both amazing and are really changing attitudes. We are just so proud to be supporting them and are beyond delighted that The Big Lottery Fund has seen fit to offer such substantial funds.

Gemma can now continue going into schools and teaching that differently abled children, such as Paddy, should be accepted and not feared. This is so important as today’s children will be the driving force towards a more inclusive society.’

Jane Jones of Jane Jones PR has been an active supporter of The DCF and was recently asked to become their Patron, her first task in this role was to present the Big Lottery cheque and Jane said: ‘I am honoured and delighted to be a part of a charity that supports such a wonderful campaign like Paddy’s Purpose.’ 

Also present on the day was Steve Bulley of Dorset Chamber of Commerce who said: ‘We are pleased to support The Dorset Children’s Foundation with their valuable work within the community. Paddy’s purpose workshop is an excellent example of the help and support their team offer.’

In addition Tim Spencer, Adrienne Coles and Gemma Cardona were present for the cheque handover.