Christine Singleton is a busy mum of three, whose eldest: James, is profoundly disabled and the inspiration behind the charity. Skiggle was born out of a family holiday that resulted in a 100-mile round trip when they forgot to pack a box of milk feed that James was reliant on and needed imminently. As many of our families will understand, unless they drove home for the feed, the only other option would have been to admit James into a regional children’s hospital – this wasn’t something that could easily have been picked up in a supermarket.
Christine realised then how valuable it would be to have someone to call on to provide help… and that was the lightbulb moment for Skiggle.
The charity operates the UK’s only messaging support system – the SOS alert service - that immediately responds to urgent requests for missing or forgotten care-based essentials and equipment to help individuals, carers and families live their fullest lives.
Skiggle tell us:
'Whatever you need, whether it's a charger, tracheostomy tube, specific feeding equipment or other care item, Skiggle exists to help rescue your holiday, support your day trip, or simply get you through breakfast and maintain your daily routine. It's so simple to use. All you have to do is sign up to the charity to send an SOS alert through the website with your request and the charity will endeavour to match you with the nearest Skiggle member who can assist.'
The charity also facilitates an online Marketplace where registered members can donate and distribute surplus care-based essentials and equipment.
'If you have sealed feed items, specialist disability equipment or care consumables that are no longer required, don’t let them go to waste, collect dust or go unopened to landfill. The Skiggle marketplace is there for you to rehome your unwanted items, reduce your waste, and potentially relieve costs on items you may personally need.'
Support the charity
There are many ways to get involved with Skiggle and you can find out more by signing up via the website at https://skiggle.co.uk and following them on social media. There is also a Facebook forum where you can share help, support and advice with like-minded people and get a virtual arm around your shoulders when you need one.'
https://www.facebook.com/SkiggleUK/
https://www.instagram.com/skiggleuk/
Skiggle
A specialist disability charity that provides help and support to disabled people, their families and carers. Registered charity no. 1185108 (England & Wales) and SCO50478 (Scotland).