SIR – The Paralympics have come home, and they look like being the most successful and well-attended Games ever. Our Paralympians are quite deservedly getting a world stage for their achievements.

But let’s not forget the millions more people with disabilities and those who care for them. They confront hurdles of a very different kind in their daily lives – hurdles of financial hardship, social isolation, ill health, depression and despair. In overcoming these obstacles they are performing their own quiet heroics, day in, day out, with little recognition and even less support. The sad truth is that even on the occasion of the biggest ever Paralympics, disabled people and carers remain among the most disenfranchised and vulnerable members of society. I’d like to offer your readers the opportunity to help us change that.

Vitalise is a charity that provides desperately-needed respite breaks for disabled people and carers at our accessible centres around the UK. We don’t get a penny from the Government, but rely on the compassion and generosity of our supporters to keep on providing our vital services.

To make a donation or for more information about our breaks, call 0303 303 0147 or visit vitalise.org.uk.

Colin Brook, communications officer, Vitalise