Local Tyrone charity, the Buddy Bear Trust, has announced a new partnership with leading accountancy firm BDO Stoy Hayward.

Based in Dungannon, the Buddy Bear Trust operates a special school serving the needs of children with cerebral palsy. The school provides a type of education known as Conductive Therapy, based on the pioneering work of the world famous PETO Institute in Hungary.

As well as financial support, BDO Stoy Hayward hopes to provide business development expertise to help the Trust develop further and engage with greater numbers of young people with cerebral palsy.

Buddy Bear Trust Chairman Brendan McConville said, “We are delighted to receive this support from BDO Stoy Hayward, which will help us deliver a vital service to young people in Dungannon and communities across Northern Ireland who face many challenges with their condition. BDO Stoy Hayward’s financial support and commitment to offer advice and expertise to Buddy Bear will be invaluable as we look towards the future.”

Due to the intensive and holistic nature of Conductive Therapy method The Buddy Bear Trust is restricted currently to helping 12 pupils with one full time instructor, with limited public funding at the moment.

Managing Partner of BDO Stoy Hayward Francis Martin said, “The Buddy Bear Trust provides a first class service supporting the needs of some of Northern Ireland’s most challenged young people. BDO is very happy to be associated with the charity and its vital work. We are also looking forward to lending our expertise to help the Trust develop its brand and financial strength, allowing it to grow and help many more children who live with cerebral palsy across the Province.”