The First Help Project and associated Rainbow Group playgroup recently moved into refurbished premises at the Princess Elizabeth Club, Myrtle Street, Bedminster.

Last year, the scheme’s future looked bleak after parent organisation Bristol Mencap folded, but Bristol Charities stepped in to run the scheme.

David Jones, chief executive of Bristol Charities, said: “The Rainbow Group has been running in Bristol for around ten years. Along with the First Help Project, it is a valuable support service for parents and children, so it was vital we prevented it from folding.

“With a new home, the service can continue to operate, although we are also looking to source external funding, particularly from Bristol’s business community.”
The First Help Project offers advice, help and support to families that have a young child with delayed development or learning difficulties. Family advisor Nicky Owen, now a Bristol Charities employee, visits families across Bristol on a regular basis.

The Rainbow Group, which runs in parallel with the First Help Project, meets every Thursday lunchtime in school term time and provides a playgroup for children and an opportunity for parents and carers to meet and discuss experiences over coffee. Support is given by a volunteer retired special needs teacher.

Nicky Owen said: “Most children are referred to us by paediatricians or health visitors. As well as listening to parents, we can provide information and advice on accessing services and tackling problems. Understandably, the earlier we intervene, the more beneficial it is for children and their families.”