Droylsden-based charity Our Kids Eyes has celebrated 20 years at its base in Jubilee Gardens on Gardenfold Way in the town.

A special celebration was thrown combining the anniversary date, Platinum Jubilee celebrations and the charity's receipt of The Queen's Voluntary Service Award after members of the group attended a Buckingham Palace garden party this summer in acknowledgement of the honour. 

The Queen's Voluntary Award is the equivalent of an MBE for voluntary groups. 

The group received extra recognition for their work during the Covid pandemic. 

The recent celebratory event at Jubilee Gardens was attended by local councillors including Droylsden East councillor David Mills. 

He told the Reporter: "I have been aware of this great charity since it was formed back in 1997 with a school's friend brother attending from its conception. 

"It has grown from strength to strength and I have seen and heard of the progress throughout the years. 

"At the event, we heard the trials and tribulations that founder Elaine Healey and all the team at OKE have been through throughout the years. 

"It has not been easy for them, however, the passion and love for all the children they provide their service to is clear to see. 

"As one of my nephews attends one of its group's activities, I can testify this is so true.

"Now, as the local councillor, it is great to be able to continue to support this amazing group along with my colleagues, Cllrs Quinn and Boyle, in any way we can. My predecessors have done so and now we will continue our financial support for the organisation. 

"A massive congratulations and thank you from all of us at the council." 

Originally founded in 1997, Our Kids Eyes became a registered charity in 2005. 

The charity is run by a board of nine trustees and local parents of children who have special needs. Together, they provide support, advice and lots of activities and events throughout the year for Tameside families who have children with special needs. 

Their aim is to make Tameside the best place to raise a child with special needs by 'supporting one another and helping our children grow with the best that we can get for them'.

With the dedicated office in Jubilee Gardens, they are open from 9am to 2.30pm.

Weekly and monthly events are held across Tameside, including:

Bowling club - all the children have the opportunity to bowl in a team with other OKE children and their siblings, parents can watch the game or bowl too. 

Family club - there are plenty of games and toys, PlayStations, DVD players, a Wii, board games, arts and crafts. Children can also play outside in the large garden with a wheelchair accessible roundabout. 

Youth club - for young people aged 11 to 18. They can access PlayStations, football tables, ping pong, board games and more. 

Holiday club - a children's entertainer is invited to perform and there are plenty of games and toys on offer. Lunch is also provided to adults and children. 

Themed family social events - includes pantomimes, Christmas, Halloween and Easter parties. Visiting places such as Dukinfield Town Hall and Stockport Plaza. There are also trips being organised all year round, dependent on funding, taking the children to places such as Gulliver's World and Blackpool Zoo. 

You can find out more about the charity online on their website or Facebook page.

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