A DUNFERMLINE dad has highlighted the importance of charities which benefit his "medical rarity" daughter.

Lawrence Cowan, whose daughter Eilidh is four-years-old, told his family's story at an event for The Yard, an organisation which supports young people with additional support needs.

More than £114,000 was raised during its annual fundraising ball, held at Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh, which was attended by around 300 people.

Mr Cowan was there ball to give a speech raising awareness of the importance of the service.

He said: "My daughter has a rare genetic condition. It means she struggles to walk, has problems with her sight and a learning disability.

"There are lots of things she struggles with but she still deserves to be loved and accepted for the wonderful girl she is.

"That’s why The Yard is so important. We first visited The Yard this time last year and it has since become a huge and crucial part of our lives.

"It’s tough to find places to play which are accessible, welcoming and supportive.

"At The Yard, they celebrate diversity and focus on what Eilish can do, rather than the challenges she faces."

He continued: "In some ways, Eilish is a medical rarity but she’s also a child who has the right to be herself and belong.

"At The Yard, she’s a child, not a disability. The Yard offers a model that should be mainstreamed across Scotland, providing a place for everyone.

"Of course, for Eilish, as a four-year-old, it’s all about fun and being immersed in the things she loves.

"She’s hooked on The Yard and especially loves the painting room and sand pit. When we talk about The Yard, she has a huge smile on her face!

"Our son Fergus loves coming to The Yard too and enjoys some special one-to-one time with his mum when he’s not here, so it’s such an important part of our family life."

The Yard works with people aged between 0-25 by hosting inclusive adventure play sessions in Edinburgh, Dundee and Kirkcaldy.

It offers creative and inclusive play experiences in a well-supported environment, alongside wraparound support for the whole family, with a varied programme of drop-in, respite and transition youth clubs, early years, specialist sessions with schools, family play sessions, plus inclusive play and disability training.