VISIT TAKES THE BISCUIT! (From Watford Observer)

VISIT TAKES THE BISCUIT!

3:07pm Monday 15th August 2011 in Watford Mencap By Keith Crout

Crumbs! It’s not every day you get Watford’s first citizen to help at your biscuit decorating workshop. But that was the treat in store for youngsters at Mencap’s summer playscheme being held at the Lemarie Centre in North Watford during the school holidays.

Chairman of Watford Council, Councillor Lindsey Scudder got tucked in on Friday with the hob knobs, chocolate spread, hundred of thousands and glace cherries to help the four to eight-year-olds come with some scrumptious treats. But they seemed more fascinated with her gold chain of office.

She took the opportunity to not only talk to the children but to meet staff and learn more about the project run by Watford Mencap.

“I think it is just wonderful,” said Lindsey. “It is a great resource and gives great peace of mind for the parents knowing that the children get specialist care!”

Many of the workers are local students who help out before going off to university. Others use the opportunity as part of their Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme.

Funded by Herts County Council, the project caters for 45 children aged 5 to 19 with a learning disability. Ro Linton, Children’s, Young People’s and Families Manager who runs the scheme said: “It is very important for children as it is often their only opportunity to have fun with their friends in a safe environment during the summer holidays. We would like to be able to mentor other schemes on how to provide play for children with a disability.”

Watford Mencap was founded 60 years ago this year and supports 150 children and young people all year round with a variety of activity clubs.