More than 500 young SCI survivors to be helped by 60k grant

More than 500 children and young people with spinal cord injury will receive support thanks to £60,000 from the London Freemasons.

The three-year grant has been awarded to the Back Up Trust through the Masonic Charitable Foundation, funded by Freemasons, their families and friends from across England and Wales.

Every year, more than 200 children and young people under 18 in the UK sustain a spinal cord injury, whether through a sudden accident, illness or medical condition.

Sophie Elwes, head of services at Back Up, said: “We’re very grateful to London Freemasons for their generous grant, which will make a meaningful difference to hundreds of families navigating the life-altering impact of spinal cord injury.

Our goal is for every child and young person with a spinal cord injury to feel supported, understood and empowered to lead the life they want to live.

“Thanks to the Freemasons, this will be possible for more children and young people.”

The funding will expand Back Up’s specialist information, advice and guidance (IAG) service, which supports children, young people and their families from early years to age 25.

The service offers personalised support plans and help with education, health and care plans. It also provides wellbeing support and direct advocacy in schools.

Back Up also delivers live assemblies and peer-led talks through trained education advocate volunteers. The scheme supports education professionals with toolkits and resources to improve long-term inclusion and accessibility in learning environments.

Over the three years, around 500 children, young people and family members are expected to benefit directly from the service.

Paul King from London Freemasons said: “I’m really pleased we’ve been able to help Back Up with their hugely important programme for children who have sustained a spinal cord injury.

“The advice and guidance they provide gives these young people the best possible chance to lead fulfilling lives.”