Embracing Progress: Grove Cottage Calls for Community Support in its Rebuilding Efforts

Grove Cottage, a beloved community hub providing social and educational activities for people of all ages with learning disabilities and special additional needs, is embarking on a journey to rebuild its premises and calls for community support. With a mission to develop potential, foster lifelong friendships, and provide respite for families, Grove Cottage is dedicated to modernising its facilities to meet the evolving needs of the community.

Current Offerings

Currently, Grove Cottage offers a wide range of activities, including:

• SEND nursery
• Speech and language therapy
• Out-of-school clubs
• Various clubs for teens and adults

Importance of the New Building Project

The new building project is essential for Grove Cottage to continue its vital work and meet the growing needs of our town. “We’re committed to helping everyone with learning disabilities and special additional needs live better lives,” says Richard Smith, Treasurer of Grove Cottage. “This new building will ensure we can support our community for many years to come.”

Call for Community Support

However, Grove Cottage cannot achieve its goals alone. It needs the community’s support to achieve its goals. “Every contribution, whether big or small, makes a difference in creating a brighter future for individuals with learning disabilities,” emphasises Natalie, Fundraising Manager at Grove Cottage.

Grove Cottage Family Stories

To illustrate the impact of Grove Cottage, here are some personal stories from our families:

Ruby’s Story:

Ruby shares how her sister Rose has benefited from Grove Cottage’s nurturing environment. “Grove Cottage has helped me, my family, and Rose in many ways. It has given Rose a place to truly be herself, develop friendships, and have the best experiences possible. It has also allowed my family and I to experience some much-needed respite and given us the opportunity to meet other families in very similar situations.”

Georgina’s Story:

Similarly, Georgina speaks about the joy and friendships her son Harry has found at Grove Cottage. “Harry has a genetic condition which causes developmental delay. He has been coming to Grove Cottage since he was a young child. For Harry, Grove Cottage has always been about having fun and seeing his friends. Without these clubs there would be no opportunity to meet with them. When I asked Harry if he would recommend Grove Cottage, he said he would because ‘it’s so much fun.'”

Nursery Mum’s Testimonial:

Additionally, a nursery mum shares, “I would definitely recommend Grove Cottage to others; it’s the perfect place for my son. I wish I found it sooner.” She emphasises, “Grove Cottage is amazing support for families with SEN children.”

Ollie’s Family:

Ollie’s family expresses gratitude, saying, “Grove Cottage has been with us as a family for Ollie’s entire life, and it will be part of his life for long into the future. They have supported us every step of the way, and we honestly don’t know where we would be without it!”

Zac’s Journey:

Furthermore, Zac’s journey highlights the impact of Grove Cottage. “Zac started attending Grove Cottage’s Youth Club as a pre-teen which before this, didn’t have a space outside of school to learn social skills with his peers. That was a stepping stone into Zac’s future, and today he still attends clubs as an adult and has recently performed at the Royal Albert Hall with his friends. Grove Cottage is providing places within the local community that incorporate people like Zac into society,” shares Zac’s sister, Freya.

How to Support

Grove Cottage invites the community to help us make a real difference by joining in fundraising events, volunteering, hosting activities, or spreading the word.

“Our dedication to enriching lives, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating achievements is unwavering,” Richard Smith, Treasurer.

Join us in building a brighter future together: Grove Cottage: A Better Building for a Brighter Future.

Read the Bishop’s Stortford Indepedent news article: Grove Cottage’s dedication to enriching lives, fostering inclusivity, and celebrating achievements is unwavering

Grove Cottage: A Better Building for a Brighter Future