Local MP Steve Double, of St Austell and Newquay, enjoyed water sports activities during a visit to a National Lottery funded charity yesterday (Wednesday 30 August).
He visited Cornwall Accessible Activities Program (CAAP) to find out more about the inspiring work they do for children and young people with disabilities.
CAAP were awarded £46,650 of National Lottery funding in April, after being voted a winner by the public in the People’s Project competition - a partnership between the Big Lottery Fund, ITV and The National Lottery. The funding has helped CAAP to provide outdoor activities and events for children and young people with additional needs during the summer holidays.
Yesterday they were treated to a day on Cornwall’s only Flowrider at Retallack in St Columb Major where young people, along with MP Steve Double, took part in surfing.
Sandy Lawrence, Director of CAAP, said:
“Thanks to National Lottery players, we’re able to provide these fantastic young people with great activities, which will develop their personal skills, boost their confidence and aspirations and make them realise their potential. We were delighted to have MP Steve Double join us and learn about the positive difference these events make to the lives of local families.”
The group have also enjoyed a woodland walk, swimming, fishing, horse riding, kayaking and trips to the beach, an aquarium and a fire station this summer.
After the visit, MP Steve Double said:
“It was great to join in with the fun activities and meet the CAAP team, along with some of the children and young people they have helped. CAAP do a tremendous job supporting and unlocking the potential of young people with disabilities in Cornwall."
“I am delighted to see that the National Lottery funding they have been awarded will provide further life changing opportunities for these young people. I look forward to seeing their work continue and hope to visit them again in the future to see how the young people using their services have got along.”
James Harcourt, England Grant Making Director at the Big Lottery Fund, said:
“Inspiring projects like CAAP receive vital funding all thanks to National Lottery players. We’re delighted to be funding such an amazing project to expand its work and improve the lives of more people from the local community.”