Hilperton volunteer Maggie Champkin said her work supporting disabled children as part of the Wiltshire Short Breaks service is incredibly rewarding, after receiving a regional award.

Mrs Champkin supports the Wiltshire Short Breaks service, managed by Barnardo’s, which provides fun activities for local children and young people aged between eight and 18 years old.

The 68-year-old chose to support the charity because her grandson has autism and she wanted to give something back by volunteering at the monthly club, which is held at the youth and community centre in Frome Road, Bradford on Avon.

As a result of her dedication, she received the regional Marsh Trust Barnardo’s Volunteer of the Year Award 2014 from Barnardo’s South West director Hugh Sherriffe on Saturday.

Mrs Champkin said: “My own grandson was diagnosed with autism and learning difficulties when he was two years old. He uses a short breaks scheme and it made such a difference that I wanted to volunteer with a similar service here in Wiltshire.

“It encourages disabled children to get out in the community and enjoy many activities together such as swimming, cooking and trampolining, or trips to the cinema and picnics.

“I particularly enjoy our walks along the canal or in local parks.

“We provide one-to-one support for a wide range of disabilities but we’re always part of a larger group, which means we have the confidence and reassurance of knowing that support is there if needed.

“The parents enjoy a rest from their responsibilities and have the time to focus on other members of the family – or even enjoy simple pleasures like going out for a coffee together.”

Wiltshire Short Breaks is managed by Barnardo’s on behalf of Wiltshire Council. Aside from Bradford on Avon, the service also provides sessions in Warminster, Chippenham, Devizes and Pewsey.

Mrs Champkin said: “It’s such rewarding work – always varied and great fun – and all of the staff and volunteers are very hardworking, friendly and supportive. The families are fantastic but, for many of them, this service is absolutely vital.”

For more information about Wiltshire Short Breaks or to volunteer, contact 01249 463907.