Actor Sally Phillips has paid tribute to the success of local charity Skylarks as a 'wonderful family, which provides a supportive community for children with special needs.

She has personal experience of the issue and is Patron of the charity, which has been named as a winner of a Community Organisation Award at the prestigious National Diversity Awards.

The aim of Skylarks is to remove the isolation that can be experienced by families and their children who have a disability or additional needs.

The parent-led charity provides services, therapies and play sessions online and at the CrossWays Centre, next to St Stephen's Church, in East Twickenham.

It supports more than 4,000 children with activities including drama, music therapy, cookery, karate, Makaton, and counselling, whilst parents can receive advice and guidance from a range of organisations, attend workshops and access support.

Sally said: "'I became Patron of Skylarks in 2009 after coming here as a family with my son Olly, who has Down Syndrome, in 2007.

"I know first-hand that the sense of community and support, as well as the huge range of vital services that are offered all in one place, make Skylarks a lifeline for many families."

She added: "As Patron of Skylarks, I am incredibly proud of how far the charity has come. I have been with Skylarks on its journey for many years and have seen the dedication of all involved, and the wonderful family that has been created across staff, volunteers and beneficiaries. This is a much-deserved award!"

Skylarks were selected from seven others in the running for the Community Organisation for Age Award. It was collected by the Chair of Trustees, Jennifer Peters, in a black tie event at Liverpool Cathedral.

Aaron Guiver, Managing Director of Skylarks Charity, said: "We are extremely proud to be recognised as the Community Organisation for Age, in recognition of the programmes put in place to enable our children to thrive.

"It is a testament to the dedication, passion and hard work of the people within our diverse community. We feel privileged to join such a prestigious group of shortlisted charities from the thousands of nominees.

"After a difficult year for all our children and families, it is an honour to celebrate the National Diversity Awards, not only to celebrate the excellent resilience shown by our children, but also the amazing achievements of the community as a whole."

Over 60,000 people were nominated for the National Diversity Awards with 126 nominees recognised for their various charitable causes.

At the start of the event the NDA's founder Paul Sesay said: "After a difficult year with many challenges to overcome due to the impact of Covid-19, I am so thrilled to finally be able to give our 2020 nominees the ceremony that they deserve.

"It is a privilege to recognise your bravery, resilience and courage. This night is for you; In my eyes and in the eyes of many others – you have already won."