Under-threat group given MP's backing

High Flyers has helped many young people with learning difficulties since being launched in Wombourne seven years ago.

It was originally based in a local church hall but moved to its current address at Pegasus House in Elder Grove in 2010 where it has half the premises. The remainder of the building is used by its owner, the Sandwell charity Options For Life. High Flyers has three years remaining of their five year licence on the property but have launched a hunt for alternative accommodation amid growing anxiety that the licence will not be renewed.

They have offered to buy the property but have been told by Options For Life that it is too early to discuss their plans for what happens on the expiry of the current agreement.

This has caused 'considerable concern' among staff and the 40 men and women aged between 18 and 43 currently attending.

The community group has a dozen full and part time staff as well as eight volunteers who help their members with everything from horse riding to computers as well as life skills and education.

South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson said: "High Flyers have helped a huge number of people in Wombourne and the surrounding area. It is a great group that plays a huge part in the community.

"I will continue to support them in their challenge to secure premises for this wonderful group which supports so many of those living in the area with learning difficulties."

High Flyers boss Sheila Baker said: "We are grateful for the support we are receiving from Mr Williamson and our local councillors, especially since at this time it would be so easy for them to concentrate their focus on the forthcoming General Election.

"We owe it to our members, who are vulnerable, their families who trust us and the local community who have supported us to do everything we can to ensure we are not forced out of existence. I believe that with hard work, some answers to prayer, and our brilliant community behind us, we can sort this out to everybody's satisfaction."

Among local organisations to support High Flyers is Wombourne Funeral Services who donated £3,000 of the money raised for charity by its partners and staff. The firm's partner John Cumiskey explained: " The staff are brilliant – they give their time free of charge to the fundraising ensuring every penny goes to the beneficiaries.

"My mother started this tradition 20 years ago and we have carried it on. We are delighted to do all we can to support local charities such as High Flyers."

Options For Life Chief Executive Alison Barrett was on holiday and unavailable for comment. Its Operations Manager Andy Davis declined to comment.