ON behalf of ARCOS may I thank you most sincerely for the space given to the article published on April 25 on the activities undertaken by our therapists.

It is sad but true, that tens of thousands of patients stricken by brain disorder, either through accidents, strokes, illness or from birth cannot rely on on-going therapy after the initial diagnosis and treatment is concluded by the NHS. This period may be a little as two years. Often distraught carers only find out that help does exist right here in Malvern, after many years of struggling alone.

ARCOS is truly a centre of excellence, bringing progress and above all hope, to patients that the health system cannot cope with. Whilst patients are benefiting, carers are trained in assisting in the correct methods of recovery also, which is vital to the patients' improvement.

Therapists world-wide benefit too, through ARCOS training methods, undertaken here in Malvern and on location.

ARCOS has no core funding. It relies on trust fund grants and ad-hoc contracting from the NHS, as well as generous help from its many supporters and its training courses. The need, however, is so great; almost overwhelming, making funding a constant battle. From babies to the elderly in care homes, the age range of those in need of help is total.

In November, ARCOS is hosting the National Dyspraxia Conference here in Malvern, which in itself is recognition of its importance as a centre of excellence.

Publicising our work is so important and your support is most welcome. Thank you on behalf of our patients, they need all our help.

FRANK HARE, Trustee ARCOS, Church Street, Malvern.