Reacher star Sonya Cassidy inspired by Somerset SEND charity
"I was made very aware of the importance of places like Springboard through my friend's sibling. As a family they had to deal with a lot more than those who don't have children with SEND," said Ms Cassidy, who grew up in nearby Nailsea.Ms Cassidy plays Susan Duffy in Reacher, which is based on the Jack Reacher book series and has been viewed more than 50 million times.Her other credits include Vera, The Tudors and The Paradise.
"Springboard not only provide an incredible, supportive, fun, empowering environment for young children but they are there for families at a time when there is so much to think about," she said."I don't think we see disability and additional needs represented on screen anywhere near enough so it's something that's not on peoples' radars."Seeing the work they do to support families as well as the kids is extraordinary."
Springboard, now in its 40th year, has four different locations across North Somerset."Most of our work with children is around developing their communication skills, their interaction skills, and sense of self," said Ruth Glover, the charity's CEO."We do get the same amount of funding that other nurseries get but that only covers half of our costs, so the rest we have to raise through fundraising activity or through applying for grants."Ms Glover said it is "hugely important" to have Ms Cassidy on board."She brings a humanity and a joy to the work that we do and she promotes our ethos incredibly well," she added.
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