Cerebral Palsy Africa
1221. Archie Hinchcliffe
1222. Jean Westmacott
Archie Hinchcliffe and Jean Westmacott, from the Scottish Borders and Hampshire, are the founders of ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’, a pioneering charity whose innovative furniture-making project is giving children in Africa with Cerebral Palsy access to education.
Working in Africa as a paediatric physiotherapist, Archie saw the need for special furniture for children with Cerebral Palsy in schools. She teamed up with Jean, using her innovative technique, Appropriate Paper-based Technology, which allows them to create sturdy furniture using cardboard, recycled paper, and water paste at a fraction of the price. The charity trains technicians in the UK and abroad in making the furniture, and working on the ground to build the skills and knowledge necessary to work with children with cerebral palsy. ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’ has trained 60 teachers in Malawi and Zambia, benefitting more than 90 children. Their new project in Ghana will help train 20 more special needs teachers. ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’ has recently also been supported through the Small Charities Challenge Fund run by the Department for International Development.
In a personal letter to Archie, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Through ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’ you are transforming the lives of children with cerebral palsy in Africa, giving them the opportunity to access education. You should feel extremely proud of what you have achieved.”
In a personal letter to Jean, Prime Minister Theresa May said:
“Your work with ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’ shows tremendous innovation and commitment to a cause which is helping to transform children’s lives. I wish you well as you continue your incredible work.”
International Development Secretary Rory Stewart said:
“I am absolutely delighted that the fantastic work of both Archie Hinchcliffe and Jean Westmacott has been recognised with a Points of Light award.
“Their work with Cerebral Palsy Africa allows some very special but vulnerable children to participate fully in school. We are very proud to have been able to provide some financial support to their excellent charity.”
Jean and Archie said:
“It is great that we are sharing the Points of Light Award. We started working together in 2006 and have been very, very busy ever since then, through the combination of explaining about cerebral palsy and showing therapists and carers how to help children develop ways to get to school, and making assistive devices such as chairs standing frames and learning toys and games.”
See more about ‘Cerebral Palsy Africa’
The Small Charities Challenge Fund (SCCF) is a funding opportunity for small UK-registered charities and not-for-profit organisations. SCCF is due to open for applications later this year. For more information visit here.