Appeals: The Robert Owen Foundation

The Robert Owen Foundation, a registered charity named after the 18th-century social reformer who devoted his early life to improving the conditions of mill-workers by creating co-operative communities, has recently founded Radfords, a courtyard community within the village of Broadhempston, in Devon, for young adults, some of whom have Down's Syndrome, special needs or learning disabilities. It aims to provide them with the opportunity for an independent life within safe, supervised surroundings. Eight people live at Radfords, where they receive adult education, vocational training and work opportunities. Building work has not yet finished and the foundation needs to raise a further pounds 120,000 to complete a workshop and day centre, which will provide day services for a further 15 local people.

The Robert Owen Foundation, Radfords, Broadhempston, Totnes, Devon TQ9 6BD, telephone 0803 813622.