A TRAILBLAZING nursery which gives both mainstream children and youngsters with additional needs the chance to learn together has been handed vital funds to continue its work. 

Colchester based Stepping Stones Play and Learn received a gift of £1,000 from Marks and Spencer a part of the retailer’s national Gifts that Give campaign.

M&S and charity platform, Neighbourly, have gifted £1,000 funding to 1,000 individual charity groups across the UK as part of the scheme.

The campaign will see M&S gift £1M to charity groups across the country, following research which found that 69 per cent of community groups reporting a rise in pressure on services, and a drop in funding.

Stepping Stones Play and Learn Group provide an integrated nursery for children with additional needs and mainstreamers aged from two, to five to play, while giving their parents respite.

The parent-led group was formed in 1991 to give children with special needs the chance to play alongside their peers.

Through their work, the charity has been able to provide a group where children feel part of a community, and staff have the knowledge and skills to support each child’s needs.

Sue Townsend, nursery coordinator at Stepping Stones, said: “We are beyond grateful for this donation, this £1,000 will support all the children who attend the nursery, as well as support more children to access activities and days within the setting.

“The donation from M&S will allow children who come from less advantaged families to have equal opportunities learning. Thank you”

The aim of the campaign reflects the research findings from M&S, that two thirds of families are determined to make the most of Christmas, despite the cost of living crisis, with gifting remaining a top priority for plenty of shoppers.

Colchester Stane Park Store Manager, Kerry Soar, said: “Although a time of celebration, Christmas can also bring significant financial pressure to families and charities.

“Based in the Colchester and run by local people, our Colchester store team feel passionate about working with Stepping Stones and are proud to have helped them support and empower so many local families with this donation.”