Disability charity 'bouncing back' after break-in

A charity which had more than £50,000 worth of "crucial" equipment stolen during a break in said it had had "a big impact".

Last October, the Minstead Trust which support people with learning disabilities to build their independence was the victim of a break in.

The trust which works with over 300 vulnerable people said a transit van and tools had been taken.

Claire Young from the Minstead Trust said nearly six months on, "we are doing ok and are "bouncing back".

The charity runs day activities, including gardening at Furzey Gardens in the New Forest.

It also offers residential and supported living, alongside a programme which helps people to learn the skills they need to get a job or volunteer work.

Ms Young said the items stolen were "crucial" equipment but "most important" was their crew cab.

She said: "The crew cab was stolen which allows a maintenance team and some of the people we support to get out and about to do their work that they do.

"It had quite a big impact and people weren't able to do their jobs they usually do."

"It was really quite disappointing and unsettling for them," she added.

Ms Young said they had a "great response" to an appeal they put out, which received "generous donations" of about £45,000.

"We had over 300 people and businesses donating equipment, donating financial support to help us recoup some of those losses.

"It really showed the people that we support the value of the work that they do and gives such a sense of pride."

She said nearly six months on and "we are doing ok".

"We've bounced back, thanks to all the support and equipment that we have received which has allowed people to get back to what they do.

"But it's also given us new opportunity, it's allowed us to take on beautiful border at Beaulieu, for The Gardeners' World Show which is coming up at the beginning of May."

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