Cornish Quilt Could Transform Lives at Learning Disability Centre – Here’s How You Can Help

A group of dedicated needleworkers in Cornwall have spent months handcrafting a quilt to raise funds for adults with learning disabilities – and one lucky supporter will soon be taking it home.

Quilting for a Cause

The Flowerpatch Quilters, who meet monthly at Cowslip Workshops in Launceston, have been working since November to create the panels for a double-sized quilt named Pretty in Pastels. The group crafts a new quilt each year which goes on display at their annual August exhibition.

But this year, they’re doing something different.

When support worker Nicki Cruickshank, who works at Hft’s respite service in Tregadillet, shared details about her job, the group decided to raffle off their quilt to raise money for the service. The funds will go towards the cost of a basket swing for the sensory garden at Chy Keres, a respite centre for learning disabled adults.

Nicki said:

“Each member is given a pack to put together for the quilt and we each create two panels.
We started in November so it’s been quite a long process, but it’s something that we all enjoy very much.
It’s wonderful seeing the quilt come together as the panels are joined together and knowing that the money raised will go to such a good cause.”

The Power of a Basket Swing

The group hopes to raise around £2,000 through the raffle.

According to Sam Zilkha, Service Manager at Chy Keres:

“The people we support love it when we visit somewhere which has a basket swing.
It gives them a real feeling of freedom using it, even more so for those who have limited mobility and it helps people with autism to regulate their sensory input.”

How to Enter the Raffle

The quilt will be on display throughout August at the Cowslip Workshops. Raffle tickets will be available during the first week of the exhibition, and can be bought at:

• Cowslip Workshops

• From members of the Flowerpatch Quilters

• Chy Keres, Tregadillet (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm)

The winner will be drawn after the exhibition and will receive the Pretty in Pastels quilt.

About Hft

Hft is a charity that supports more than 2,800 learning disabled adults across England and Wales. Established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, the organisation provides personalised support, helps people live independently, and campaigns for positive change.

They explain:

A learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by reduced intellectual ability and struggles with everyday activities. This differs from a learning difficulty, which does not affect general intellect.

The raffle not only offers a chance to win a beautifully handmade quilt, but also helps fund meaningful, sensory experiences for adults who deserve the best life possible.