Knitting natterers come to the rescue of children

Newtown's Knit and Natter members have come to the rescue of school children who are worried or anxious as a result of the coronavirus situation.

The group who regularly meet knit and chat in town have raised thousands of pounds in recent years through their fundraising.

Now, they have created 'Worry Monsters' to help children at a north Powys school to express their feelings.

Paula Roberts of Knit and Natter said: "I was contacted by a lovely lady who needs our help. She has recently taken on a role in Ysgol Llanfyllin school where the children age from 3 to 18 years of age.
 
"During this terrible time some of the children have really struggled with being away from school and many are finding things harder than ever, despite now being back in school.

"She would love to do something to help every single child in the school and thought that these would be perfect for the younger children.

"They are called 'Worry Monsters' and are used by therapists/ social workers / teachers to help children that are struggling."

Paula added: "The children often find it difficult to discuss their worries with an adult but are happier to tell it to the Worry Monster or are encouraged to write down their worries which can then be discussed and then fed to the Worry Monster.

"Unfortunately the charity that makes and supplies them has had a huge demand for them so they have had to close the waiting list for now. 

"So this is where we come in. Many of our knitters enjoy making toys and like a challenge. 

"Once again the knit and natter ladies rose to the challenge and today I delivered 37 Worry Monsters to Ysgol Llanfyllin.

"This first batch were given out to year six children to help elevate any worries over the summer before their transition to the High School."

"We are already working on more for year five children."