A FORMER protest group against the closure of under-threat services for disabled people in Newport has been granted charitable status.

Synergy Wales (Cyfle Cymru) - formerly SOS Newport – has been set up to help bridge care service shortfalls as a result of cutbacks by Newport City Council.

The new group, which has rugby player-turned-journalist Eddie Butler as its patron, will look to provide respite for the families of children and adults living with learning difficulties.

One of the founders, Simon Harvey, said they wanted to help people to develop new skills and independence in a secure supportive environment.

“The government cuts have meant that local councils can no longer provide the comprehensive day-to-day services we have been used to in recent years,” he said.

“These services have become almost essential for our families and the prospect of losing them was extremely daunting.

“In line with the government’s Big Society the protest group evolved into Synergy Wales, a provider of services for our families.”

Mr Harvey was part of the group which established SOS Newport, after Newport council announced it would be closing The New Willows care home – regularly used by his brother-in-law Nigel Atkins, a William Syndrome-sufferer – earlier this year, saving them around £124,000.

A petition was launched, attracting thousands of signatures, and was presented following a protest at Newport Civic Centre.

But after meeting with councillors and council officers, Mr Harvey said it became obvious future councils would not be able to provide the level of services previously available.

Mr Harvey added: “The last eleven months has proved to be a long journey with many twists and turns, but it is with considerable excitement and enthusiasm the group looks forward to working with relevant agencies to provide new and innovative services for the benefit of adults and children with learning difficulties, their families and carers.”

The charity will engage with individuals in music, drama, catering, horticulture, basic communication, numeracy and technology.

A launch event is to be held on December 6 at Llanwern High School, by invitation-only.

The charity will initially be based in Bettws, with projects based across the city.

A website is under construction.