Martha Trust – Germaine at Mary House Hastings. Photo: Alan Langley

Martha Trust: transforming lives

Martha Trust is a unique and inspiring charity that transforms the lives of people with profound disabilities. Martha supports young people and adults with profound physical and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) in Hastings and Deal, providing a home for life in a safe and loving environment, respite and day care.

Adults with PMLD need help with every function of their lives. Most are unable to communicate using language, or to stand, walk or move unaided, and they all need round-the-clock nursing. At Martha Trust, they offer a home for life in purpose-built accommodation with an individually-tailored and continuous programme of education and therapy, designed to develop the person’s actual and latent skills and abilities.

The Trust also make sure everyone gets the most out of every day. The nursing care is funded by local authorities and clinical commissioning groups, but everything else they do – from physiotherapy and hydrotherapy to day-trips, specialist equipment and minibuses – has to be paid for entirely by voluntary donations. These are the things that make the difference between giving supportive, holistic care and just minding someone, the very worst cases of which all too regularly make the news.

With the numbers of people with profound disabilities on the increase, due to advances in medical care, the demand for Martha’s services is going to continue to grow.

Help them to make 2016 a record year for transforming the lives of people with profound disabilities by supporting Martha Trust in whatever way you can. From attending one of their organised events to holding one of your own – maybe through their Music4Martha campaign – or get your friends, family or company involved. Whatever you choose to do, they are always looking for people to help them raise awareness of their work and the needs of people with profound disabilities. If you would like to get involved or find out more, visit www.marthatrust.org.uk or call 01304 610448.

Peter at Mary House, Hastings

Fundraising events

Rome Or Bust: Would your company like to support the Trust’s 2016 car challenge? They’re looking for sponsors to support their flagship event: Rome Or Bust. Main sponsorship opportunities are still available at £1,000 or support the Martha car for £100. To find out more, call 01304 610448, email fundraising@marthatrust.org.uk or visit Martha Trust Rome Or Bust.

Martha Trust has also been invited to collect at the 950th anniversary Hastings Bonfire Evening on Sat 15 Oct  and are looking for volunteers to collect with them.

If you would like to get involved or find out more, visit Martha Trust or call 01304 610448. Thank you for your time.

Martha Trust – Mary House Hastings. Photo: Alan Langley

Also in: Hastings People