Keighley and Ilkley MP has met with Oxenhope resident Louise Scott from the charity Sibs, the only charity in the UK that provides support for siblings of disabled children and adults.
Representing the needs of over half a million young siblings and over 1.7 million adult siblings across the UK, Sibs provides information, support and training on sibling issues for adult and young siblings, parents and professionals.
Established in 2001 in response to growing demand within the children’s sector for how to support siblings of disabled children, Sibs has been running workshops and developing resources on sibling issues for over two decades. Over the last 24 years, the charity has reached over 500,000 siblings, their families and the professionals who support them.
More recently, the charity has been focusing on growing a network of local peer support groups for adult siblings and has gained recognition though the involvement of radio DJ and television presenter Jo Whiley, whose sister Frances, is disabled. Jo has become both an advocate and patron of the charity.
Mr Moore paid tribute to the work of Louise and the team at Sibs, recognising the vital role the charity plays in supporting an often overlooked group.
Commenting on the meeting, Louise Scott said:
“Sibs is a tiny charity and we are so grateful to Robbie for taking the time to hear more about our work and for helping us raise awareness of this often overlooked group who have a lifelong need for information. We support young siblings through our YoungSibs information hub, and a bank of resources for adult siblings, parents and professionals which can all be found on our website at www.sibs.org.uk”
Robbie Moore MP also shared his thoughts:
“It was great to meet with Louise and learn more about fantastic work that Sibs does to support siblings of disabled children and adults. As I learnt from Louise, siblings of disabled individuals rarely receive recognition for their role or support for their needs. That’s why, as the only charity of its kind in the country, the work Sibs’ does is so vital. A huge thanks to Louise for all the work that you continue to do.”
