Mother's hope that free workshops will help integrate society (From Watford Observer)

Barbara Yeboah-Hinton is hosting free family workshops in Watford

3:30pm Thursday 1st November 2012 in News By Amie Mulderrig, Features Writer

Children and parents gathered at a Garston supermarket on Saturday for a free family orientated workshop.

Single mother-of-six Barbara Yeboah-Hinton set up the workshops in a bid to encourage families to spend more quality time together.

She is also hoping to use the classes to integrate disabled and able-bodied children more, something Ms Yeboah-Hinton believes is lacking in today’s society.

The Bushey resident said: "Children are always accepting because they are innocent, but adults can at times find it hard to accept an adult or a child that is disabled.

"It is a great shame that people are like this, but it’s time that everyone accepts the reality that life and our community is filled with people who have special needs and disabilities.

"If we embrace and accept others regardless of colour, creed and disability, then young children today will grow up to be well balanced teenagers and adults who are happy to respect and accept others who live with a disability and have special needs.

"I am aiming to do this with these workshops, as well as promoting family time. Since they started in August, they are proving very successful, I'm hoping my idea will spread further."

The workshops, which are held at Asda’s community room, by The Dome roundabout, take place every Saturday and Sunday from midday until 2pm.