Pictured: (l-r) Rebecca Yarnall, Rachel Yarnall( with iPad box), Diana Fish (PPDG), Hannah Yarnall, Ethan Wheale and Jo Yarnall

An Aldridge based group of parents providing support to families with Downs Syndrome children have had their wish granted thanks to the generosity of local workers.

Staff from Walsall based Pertemps People Development Group learned that PROUD (Parents, Relatives and Others Understanding Downs) needed an iPad to help some of the younger children with educational development.

Employees nominated the charity for a donation from their payroll giving scheme enabling Diana Fish from the Walsall office to make the dream come true.

PROUD was set up in 2004 by Jo Yarnall and other local parents when her eldest daughter Hannah was only two-years-old. 

"An iPad will allow us to download applications and various learning tools to enhance the children's learning," said Jo. "It was something we just couldn't afford but will make a real difference to the group."

PROUD is totally parent-led offering practical support to families with a Downs child whilst helping raise awareness of the condition across the wider community. 

"I often go into hospital to reassure new parents of DS children that help and support is available," Jo added. "Having a DS child can be a traumatic experience but they are the most precious and wonderful gift bringing endless joy and pleasure to our lives."

Now with charitable status, PROUD runs a series of activities and has a thriving dance section.

PPDG has an extensive community support programme and is itself extremely proud of recently surpassing the £150,000 milestone of giving back through payroll donations.

PR Manager Phil Pemble said the donation was particularly apt as the company payroll scheme was also established in 2004 at the same time that PROUD was formed. 

"An iPad is today's technology which can help stimulate the children's education," he said. "We are delighted to have the opportunity to support PROUD in teaching our future generation."

For more information about Pertemps People Development Group, please visit their website here: www.ppdg.co.uk