My name is Andrew Trafford. 

I am fighting to ensure that my son is able to have the same opportunities as his peer group by giving a voice to someone that does not have a voice of their own.

My son, Andy, has complex needs and has been refused funding by the local borough to attend a college that is specifically geared to meet his needs, and follow his chosen career path in performing arts.  

I need to raise significant funds to pay for the legal fees of the tribunal and specialists that are tasked to provide detailed reports to explain why The Orpheus Centre meets his needs. I can't do this alone. Please contribute now and share this page with your friends, family and on social media. 

But this isn't just about Andy

In getting Andy a place at The Orpheus Centre, we are aiming to create a precedent to ensure that no other young person is forced to have to go through such a traumatic experience in order for them to access the facilities that they are legally entitled to. 

We have received the mediation certificate and are in the process of completing and submitting the tribunal document. Once submitted we will need to secure the services of an Educational physiologist, Speech and Language Therapist, Occupational Therapist and a Physio Therapist to review my sons needs and identify how his chosen college The Orpheus Centre would be best suited to meet his needs.

How much I am raising and why? 

Ultimately, we need to raise £15000 in order that all aspects of this case are financially covered. But initially we want to start with £5,000 to make sure we can get our case started. 

We are most grateful for any and all support that is contributed to help my son to be able to access the education that he is entitled to and in doing so be able to follow his dream of becoming an actor, living independently and maybe having a family of his own one day and for this we thank you