Mayor's Visit to WHISH

On the 12th of January, WHISH was honored to welcome David Skaith, the Mayor of York and North Yorkshire, for a truly special visit. It was a day filled with inspiration, as the Mayor met with multiple WHISH members, engaged with staff, and saw firsthand the vital support we provide to families. 

 

During his visit, the Mayor announced a much-needed funding boost of £44,000 from his regional fund. This support will go towards installing an accessible lift and toilets, as well as funding sport and public transport initiatives—ensuring WHISH remains a safe, inclusive, and accessible space for all families. 

 

WHISH has long been a lifeline for children with disabilities and their families. Cheryl, a foster carer to 12-year-old twin boys, shared how WHISH has been a safe haven for them: 

 

“This is a place where they fit in, they’re happy and the staff are brilliant. It gives us other people to talk to, and the children do so many different things—from horse riding to sports days and days out.” 

 

Meeting Rising Challenges 

 

WHISH’s Project Manager, Yvonne Harrison, spoke about the increasing demand for support since the pandemic and due to the rising cost of living. Many families of children with disabilities struggle financially, with some having to make heartbreaking choices between basic necessities. 

 

“If you have a disabled child, you're more likely to be poorer. We've had parents say they can't afford to buy washing powder because they have had to spend the money on food.” 

 

Currently, WHISH reaches around 30% of children with disabilities in the area, but the goal is to extend support to all families who need it. With the new funding and ongoing community efforts, WHISH aims to grow its reach and continue offering essential services. 

Expanding Support for Families 

 

WHISH provides a wide range of activities for children and teenagers, including: 

✅ After-school clubs 

✅ Swimming lessons 

✅ Cookery classes 

✅ Horse riding 

✅ Sports days 

✅ Exciting days out 

 

These programs are designed to offer fun, learning, and social interaction in a safe, understanding environment. 

Backing from the Mayoral Fund 

 

WHISH was one of over 20 community halls and hubs to receive funding from the £600,000 mayoral fund for much-needed renovations. Mayor Skaith emphasized the importance of supporting rural charities and community groups, ensuring that resources reach the areas that need them most. 

 

“As a combined authority, we can look over the whole region and see where those areas are that are in need of certain services, and we can step in. 

 

If we can find those gaps and there is a need for a service in Whitby, Scarborough, or wherever, then we can work with organisations that are already there to ramp up their offering.” 

 

A Bright Future Ahead 

 

The Mayor’s visit was not just about funding—it was about recognizing and celebrating the impact WHISH has on families. It was a chance for members to share their stories, for staff to highlight their hard work, and for our community to gain the recognition it deserves. 

 

We are incredibly grateful to Mayor Skaith for his support and to everyone who makes WHISH a welcoming, inclusive, and life-changing space. Here’s to a brighter, more accessible future for all! 🎉