Specialist ‘Tough’ equipment for nine-year-old Kofi Nyamekye means he can sleep in a proper bed again.

Kofi, who lives in the Parkhead area of Glasgow, has autism and sensory processing difficulties. His condition means he displays challenging behaviour and feels the need to jump and climb – and he has broken every bed he has had, which has resulted in him sleeping on a mattress on the floor for his own safety.

His health care team recommended a ‘Tough’ bed to provide a suitable safe sleeping environment for Kofi, but with the equipment costing £1,307 and no funding available through local statutory services, his mum Elizabeth contacted Newlife the Charity for Disabled Children for help.

Now, with the support of fashion chain giant River Island, Kofi has his own safe place to sleep.

Newlife is the UK’s largest charity provider of specialist equipment for children with disabilities and terminal illness and is supported by River Island through a ‘fantastic plastic’ initiative. The profit from the sale of all five pence carrier bags at every River Island store in the UK is donated to Newlife – to date this is £500,000 – and the charity uses the money to provide vital equipment like specialist car seats and wheelchairs, beds and buggies, standing and walking frames, portable hoists and communication aids.

Mum Elizabeth Maloreh-Nyamekye said: “Kofi has difficulties settling down at night, but having a safe and comfortable bed will help establish a bed-time routine. Having this equipment should make a huge difference to Kofi’s wellbeing – and also benefit his two brothers.”

To find out more about how Newlife supports local children, go to www.newlifecharity.co.uk/glasgowcity. Right now, the charity is working with another three families in Glasgow, with equipment needs totalling £7,365. You can help by donating through the website or, alternatively, contact the Newlife Supporter Relations Team on 01543 462777 or email local@newlifecharity.co.uk.

One hundred per cent of all fundraising/donations in Glasgow will go directly towards providing equipment; nothing is taken out for administration.

Pictured: Kofi Nyamekye

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