A DATING service for people with learning disabilities in Wyre Forest is feeling the love this Valentine's Day after receiving a £110,000 grant from the National Lottery.

Stars in the Sky, run by Kidderminster's Our Way Self Advocacy, was awarded the funding through the National Lottery Community Fund, formerly the Big Lottery Fund, to help even more people with disabilities in Worcestershire to find love and friendship.

The latest grant will go towards holding more social events and provide new opportunities for people with learning disabilities to connect with others and take part in activities, including go-karting, bowling and walks in the countryside.

Support sessions will also be provided around sexual health, consent and contraception.

Catherine Quekett, manager at Our Way Self Advocacy, said: “This is fantastic news and we can’t wait to bring even more people together across Worcestershire, all thanks to National Lottery players.

"We match our members sensitively, getting to know their personalities and expectations, as well as provide educational workshops so they understand relationships.

"Stars in the Sky gives people a fulfilling life, empowering them to become more independent, whilst reducing isolation and loneliness."

Kidderminster Shuttle:

The project has been playing cupid for almost 10 years, resulting in three marriages, over 20 engagements and countless friendships - and now has around 150 members.

Staff get to know members and their personalities through social events, such as coffee mornings, picnics and paintballing, so they can match people to develop friendships and relationships.

John Lawley, 32, from Bewdley, and Lara Holland, 35, from Colwall, have been in a relationship for more than two years after being brought together through Stars in the Sky.

"I first met Lara on a computer skills course and encouraged her to come to Stars in the Sky," said John. "Since then we’ve enjoyed many happy times together at parties and visiting museums. This project has helped me make new friends and feel connected to the community and, best of all, I found Lara.

Lara added: “Before coming here, I was feeling really depressed after my mother and grandmother passed away within the same year. Stars in the Sky saved my life.

"I wasn’t coping and I didn’t have many friends.

"John is my protector and as well as being in a relationship, we’re like best mates.

"My mental health has improved so much and it’s also helped my dad and brother, knowing that I have friends around me and I’m no longer lonely.

"John and I are hoping to live together in the future which we’re really looking forward to.”

Stars in the Sky is open to adults over the age of 18. Visit ourway.org.uk/our-way-projects/stars-in-the-sky.