Upbeats win extra funding

The Charlton Upbeats have scored a fantastic off-the-pitch victory by winning extra funding to expand the work of the Addicks Community Trust.

On Thursday, the initiative that works with youngsters with Down's syndrome was selected to be the focus of a special report by ITV's London Tonight programme, and went head-to-head with another charity for more than £30,000 as part of the People's Millions competition.

Addicks fans flocked to vote for the Upbeats - and 24 hours later London Tonight announced that the project had won a significant victory.

"It's a wonderful result,” said trust chief executive Jason Morgan. "The extra funding is going to make a huge difference, and I must thank everyone who took the time to vote for their vital contribution.

"We regularly speak about the Charlton family, and it's at occasions like this when everyone comes together when that phrase is particularly appropriate. We're overjoyed.”

The Upbeats have been campaigning since the home match against Milton Keynes Dons earlier this month.

Players and their families distributed leaflets around the stadium in advance of kick-off, a special film was shown on the big screen at half-time, and players were also introduced to the Addicks faithful.

The film was also shown at half-time of Tuesday's match against Bristol Rovers, and there has been extensive coverage on www.cafc.co.uk and in the Valley Review.

Trust disability and mental health officer Carl Krauhaus explained: "The extra funding will not only help us continue to provide opportunities on the pitch through football, but will also provide vital speech and language therapy, respite care for parents and programmes for siblings, and a chance to work hand in hand with members of our community on environmental projects."

The Charlton Upbeats are part of a Down's syndrome programme which runs for 90 minutes every Saturday.

More than 60 youngsters have attended since its launch five months ago, and around 25-30 youngsters aged between five and 26 attend every week.

The initiative began in partnership with DS Active to provide opportunities for youngsters with Down's to access and enjoy football and other activities at their own speed and at a level that is manageable for them.

The trust will receive £37,800 to support its work under the Kick Start for Life programme.

For more information about the Charlton Upbeats, call 020-8850 2866 or email carl.krauhaus@cact.org.uk