Harry
Local charity · real community support

Harry's Fund supports children and families affected by Cri du Chat syndrome

Harry's Fund is a local charity originally set up to raise awareness of Cri du Chat syndrome and to support children and families affected by this rare genetic condition. A significant portion of the money it raises is shared with support groups and special needs schools to help fund activities, equipment and support for children with additional needs.

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Who we are

We are Harry's Fund

Harry's Fund is a local charity originally set up to raise awareness of Cri du Chat syndrome and to support children and families affected by this rare genetic condition. A significant portion of the money it raises is shared with support groups and special needs schools to help fund activities, equipment and support for children with additional needs.

Harry's Fund was set up by the friends and family of Harry Bates. Harry was born on the 11th February 2008 and at the age of 12 weeks was diagnosed with Cri du Chat syndrome ” a genetic condition which leaves children with severe mental and physical disabilities.

As part of that community support, Harry's Fund has donated funds to St Anne's School and Sixth Form College ” the specialist school in Hessle for pupils aged 2-19 with special educational needs and complex needs ” to help enhance opportunities and support for the children there.

In practice, this means Harry's Fund contributes financially towards enrichment, resources, activities or services at St Anne's that go beyond what statutory funding covers ” supporting experiences and equipment that can improve pupils' learning, independence and wellbeing.

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Harry's Fund photo
Harry's Fund photo
About Harry's Fund

Built by family & friends - powered by the community

The charity raises awareness and provides practical support, helping fund activities, equipment, and experiences for children with additional needs - the things that can make a huge difference day-to-day.

What we do

Harry's Fund supports children and families affected by Cri du Chat syndrome and other rare genetic conditions, and funds local specialist schools and groups to provide enrichment, resources and support.

Awareness Family support Equipment & activities

Why it matters

In practice, this means contributing towards enrichment, resources, activities or services that go beyond what statutory funding covers - supporting experiences and equipment that can improve learning, independence and wellbeing.

Enrichment Independence Wellbeing
Understanding Cri du Chat

What is Cri du Chat syndrome?

Cri du Chat syndrome is a rare genetic condition caused by a deletion of genetic material from chromosome 5. Every person is different, and the condition can affect development, learning and health in different ways.

The science

Chromosome 5 & the 5p deletion

Humans usually have 23 pairs of chromosomes. Cri du Chat syndrome occurs when part of the short arm of chromosome 5 is missing.

Chromosome 5 Typical structure
p arm q arm 5
5p− Part of the short arm is missing
missing 5p material 5p−
Illustration for explanation only — the amount and exact location of missing genetic material can differ between individuals.
Why the name?

A distinctive cry gave the syndrome its name

Cri du Chat means “cry of the cat” in French. The name comes from the distinctive high-pitched, cat-like cry that can occur in babies with the condition.

The condition is also known as 5p deletion syndrome or 5p− syndrome. The letter p refers to the short arm of a chromosome, so 5p− describes genetic material being missing from the short arm of chromosome 5.

Why does the condition vary?

The size of the chromosome deletion is not the same for everyone. This is one reason people with Cri du Chat syndrome can have very different abilities, characteristics and support needs.

Chromosome 5p−

Part of the short arm of chromosome 5 is missing.

Estimated frequency 1 in 20,000–50,000

Cri du Chat syndrome is considered a rare genetic condition.

Inheritance Usually not inherited

Most cases occur as a new chromosomal change rather than being passed directly from a parent.

Every person Is different

Characteristics and levels of support needed vary from person to person.

How can it affect someone?

The effects of Cri du Chat syndrome vary

People with Cri du Chat syndrome may experience a range of developmental and physical characteristics. Not everyone will have every characteristic, and the degree to which someone is affected can differ considerably.

Support is therefore individual — focusing on each person's development, communication, independence, health and quality of life.

Development & learning Developmental delay and learning difficulties can occur.
Speech & communication Speech and language development may be delayed and additional communication support can be helpful.
Muscle tone & movement Low muscle tone, particularly during infancy, is commonly associated with the condition.
Health needs Some children have additional medical needs, which can include congenital heart defects.
Want to understand the genetics in more detail?

Unique provides information, support and resources for families affected by rare chromosome and gene disorders.

Visit Unique

This information is provided for general awareness and education and should not be considered medical advice. Families with questions about diagnosis, genetics or treatment should speak with an appropriate healthcare professional.

Local support · real impact

Helping children and families across our community

As part of community support, Harry's Fund has donated funds to St Anne's School and Sixth Form College - the specialist school in Hessle for pupils aged 2-19 with special educational needs and complex needs - helping enhance opportunities and support for the children there.

Specialist schools

Funding that supports resources, equipment and experiences for pupils with complex needs - the extras that can transform day-to-day life.

Families & groups

Support that helps families access activities, tools and practical help - reducing barriers and building confidence.

Community fundraising

Weekly market stall, charity events, and local donations - turning community generosity into real support for local children.

Who we support

St Anne's School & Unique Friends

Two brilliant local organisations making a huge difference - Harry's Fund helps by funding opportunities, resources and inclusive experiences.

St Anne's School & Sixth Form College

Supporting enrichment, resources, activities and specialist equipment that go beyond statutory funding - improving pupils' learning, independence and wellbeing for ages 2-19 with complex needs.

Enrichment Equipment Wellbeing

Unique Friends

Funding inclusive activities and social experiences that build confidence, friendships and community for children and young people with additional needs.

Inclusion Confidence Community
Current fundraisers

Support Harry's Fund

Two brilliant fundraisers, one shared goal: helping children with rare genetic disorders and their families.

Thomas' London Marathon 2027

In 2027, Thomas will be taking on the London Marathon - 26.2 miles through the streets of London - running with a charity place for Harry's Fund.

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Supporting families impacted by genetic disorders

Hello! I wanted to share something important with you. A family member is supporting Harry™s Fund, which helps children with rare genetic disorders and their families. Every donation truly makes a difference, so please consider clicking the link below to contribute or share it with others. Thank you for your kindness!

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Backed by brilliant local partners

Sponsors who help make this possible

A big thank you to the local businesses supporting Harry's Fund.

North Cave Sunday Market

We're there every week to collect donations and sell items on behalf of the charity.

ARVOSE

Proud sponsor supporting Harry's Fund and local community fundraising efforts.

Upcoming event

Race Night Fundraiser

Join us for a great night of racing, raffles and prizes in aid of Harry's Fund.

Harry's Fund Race Night Fundraiser on Friday 9 October 2026
Date
Friday 9th October 2026
Time
Doors open 7:00pm
Location
The Cross Keys
Gilberdyke
Races 8 exciting races
Activities Betting slips & raffle
Prizes Great prizes to be won
Entry All welcome

Bring your family and friends for good times, great company and a big impact. Every bet placed helps support local disabled children and adults.

Ask about the event Donate a prize
Can you help?

Donate a prize for our Race Night

We are looking for raffle prizes for the Race Night on Friday 9th October. Vouchers, experiences, gift sets, bottles, days out, services or any other fantastic prizes can all make a big difference.

Donate a raffle prize for the Harry's Fund Race Night

Every prize makes a big difference

Your generous donation will help raise vital funds to support Harry's Fund and the incredible work it does for children and families.

Contact
Rich Bates
Email
rich@harrysfund.com
Phone
07599 290792
Donate a prize
Sold out

Cri du Chat family meet-up day

Our West Yorkshire family meet-up is now fully booked. We are delighted that families will be coming together to share, support one another and create lasting memories.

Sold-out Cri du Chat family meet-up in West Yorkshire Sold out

Bringing families together

A small family meet-up day for families affected by Cri du Chat syndrome, proudly sponsored by Harry's Fund.

Date
Saturday 26th September 2026
Venue
Ponderosa, West Yorkshire
Address
Smithies Lane, Heckmondwike, WF16 0PN
Fully booked
Places to visit

Great family days out

Looking for somewhere to visit? Here are a few brilliant family-friendly attractions around Yorkshire.

Ings Park Alpacas in North Cave
North Cave, East Yorkshire

Ings Park Alpacas

Meet alpacas, goats and other friendly farm animals at this countryside attraction in North Cave. Experiences include alpaca walks, animal trekking, goat yoga and hands-on farm activities.

Animals Family Outdoors
Visit website
Ponderosa Zoo in Heckmondwike
Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire

Ponderosa Zoo

A family-friendly zoo home to more than 100 animals, including lemurs, meerkats, reindeer, tortoises and many more, with a focus on conservation, education and fun.

Zoo Family Education
Visit website
Burnby Hall Gardens in Pocklington
Pocklington, East Yorkshire

Burnby Hall Gardens

Explore nine acres of beautiful gardens and lakes, including the nationally significant collection of hardy water lilies, woodland walks, the Stewart Museum and family-friendly attractions.

Gardens Family Heritage
Visit website
Get involved

Want to help? Email us

For volunteering, donations, fundraising ideas or sponsorship - we'll point you in the right direction.

Contact

Email is the fastest way to get in touch - tell us how you'd like to support and we'll reply as soon as we can.

Find us locally

Weekly stall at North Cave Sunday Market, charity clothes bins in Gilberdyke, plus regular events and fundraisers.

Market stall Clothes bins Events