Supporting Robin: A Journey of Care and Community

I have been supporting Robin for four years, and in this time, I have not only gained a fantastic rapport with him but also with his family, particularly his parents. Throughout these past years, I have supported the family in raising money for things related to Robin and his health. For instance, we held a holistic day, which was set up in both Robin’s home and his parents'. We had volunteer therapists, nail artists, and foot care specialists, which was a great success.

Identifying a Problem and Having a Vision

Unfortunately for Robin, as time has progressed, he has begun falling over more regularly. When this happens, Robin's father, Steve, always assists in helping Robin to a chair and supports him to check that he is okay. This can take quite a strain on Steve.

Last year, Robin’s parents spoke to me about a Razor Chair. This device is built around the person after they have encountered a fall and can be used provided no injury has been sustained. It would benefit Robin hugely, meaning his own staff could operate the device single-handedly without needing to call upon Robin’s father. The staff could also give reassurance to Robin the entire time and bring him up to almost standing position effortlessly. So, we knew between us that money needed to be raised to go towards the purchase of this device. Sadly, the chair is not available on the NHS and costs in the region of £4,000.

Bringing the Community Together

In my spare time, I play darts for a league team. I organised a meeting in private with the dart team and explained the situation. Straight away, they all wanted to get on board with a way to help raise some money for the Razor Chair.

I came up with the idea of a nonstop 12-hour Dartathon. We would start playing darts from 9:00 am until 9:00 pm. We would ask our families and friends to come along on the day and donate a minimum of £5 to play against anyone from the dart team and gain sponsors from anyone else we could think of.

Making It Happen

Then I had to find a venue, and it was at this point we thought that all our efforts would be paying for a venue and staff for the 12 hours at least. The dart captain and I approached the chairman of the Royal British Legion in Thurmaston, as this is the venue where we play our darts every week. We explained what we were hoping to do and the reason why. Immediately, they were on board. They very kindly let us have the venue with all its facilities for free. I was so excited to go back and tell Robin and his parents what the team and I would like to do as a fundraising event.

Day of the Dartathon

On the day, the dart team and I all met at 8:00 am. We set up the tables, and I arranged the prizes for the Tombola that Robin’s parents had organised. Before we knew it, the first dart hit the dartboard at 9:00 am—the fundraising had begun. It wasn’t long before the main doors opened and people started coming in, paying a donation at the door and supporting our great event. It’s important to state that every fundraising bucket was completely empty at this point.

Throughout the day, more people arrived—staff, PWS, and Robin and his family. The atmosphere was buzzing. Children were persuading their parents to pay so they could play against one of the team members. Staff were playing, as were people who draw on our support. It was great to see Robin’s family playing with their friends and family too. A local business had kindly donated some trophies, so we were able to hold competitions to win one of those as well.

The day progressed until 9:00 pm. We were getting tired, but our enthusiasm did not falter, and the money buckets were still being passed around. As 9:00 pm approached, we had a huge countdown and an even bigger cheer. This amazing dart team had completed the challenge I had set. After all the hugging and emotions—quite high due to our determination on the day—we raised just short of £500.

We completed our night by being joined by all the staff at the Legion, with a karaoke session and the biggest smiles on our faces. I couldn’t wait to tell Robin and his family.

A Final Note

Being a relief Support Worker comes with so many fantastic roles, and sometimes we just have to find those roles within ourselves. Working and liaising with PWS families is something I really enjoy. For me personally, it’s not just about Robin—it’s the bigger picture. It’s about who Robin is and who is closest to him, and working together to build the most awesome relationships.

Finally, the Razor Chair was purchased and has been used. Staff have received the training, and most of all, Robin is happy that he has it.

Words from Robin and His Parents

Words from Robin and His Parents

I attended the Dartathon, and it was really good. I enjoyed it—watching everyone play. It was really nice.

– Robin

Tracey went above and beyond when she came up with the idea and organised her team of dart players to help raise funds for a much-needed Razor Chair for Robin. The event was a fun day, supported by family, members of Robin’s Macintyre Team, and friends. It was a great success and much appreciated by us and Robin.

– Steve and Jane