AN APPEAL has been launched to give freedom to a little girl with cerebral palsy.

Six-year-old Rebecca Ford, who goes to Langside School, spends all her time in a wheelchair because she is not happy lying down.

The youngster has multiple difficulties including severe learning difficulties, has circulation issues, no head control, both hips are dislocated, she is fed through a tube and she needs help to keep her airways clear.

However Newlife Foundation for Disabled Children is helping her family raise money for a standing frame to make her more comfortable at home and improve her quality of life.

Not only would the standing frame bring a variety of health benefits including helping her posture, bone density, muscle strength and the function of her internal organs, it would mean she can enjoy the simple pleasure of standing up and have the freedom to change position, which would help her avoid painful pressure sores on her skin.

Her mum Nicki, from Parkstone, said: “She uses a standing frame at school but the hospital said she would really benefit from having one at home, so she could continue with her routine of standing and moving during the weekends and school holidays.

“But the hospital say statutory services should fund it – and statutory services says the hospital should fund it. I found out about Newlife from Rebecca’s school and contacted them for help.

“Having a standing frame would be much better for Rebecca’s health and being able to stand up when she’s at home means she won’t be sitting on her bottom all day, which can cause pressure sores on her skin. There are also lots of health benefits from being able to stand up regularly.

“I would be able to do much more with Rebecca and her brother. She would have more freedom and be able to be more a part of things.”

The charity, which helps children with disabilities and terminal illnesses, is now looking for local heroes who can contribute. It already has £545 towards the equipment but a further £1,088 is needed to fund the frame.

For more information go to newlifecharity.co.uk/dorset or call 01543 431 444 or email local@newlifecharity.co.uk