COMEDIANS will come together to cheer up special needs children adjusting to life in lockdown – and you can too.

Entertainers including Angela Barnes, James Acaster, and Joe Lycett are recording jokes and funny stories for disability charity Amaze Sussex’s Big Cheer Up starting tomorrow.

But anyone can join in with their own jokes using the hashtag #BigCheerUp on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Amaze hopes the campaign will raise spirits and support families caring for children with special needs.

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“Whilst all of us are struggling to deal with the COVID-19 outbreak, children with additional needs and disabilities are particularly vulnerable,” a spokeswoman said.

“Many have underlying medical conditions which mean they are more at risk of complications from the virus.

“Children with learning disabilities and conditions like autism or ADHD may find self-isolating incredibly difficult due to their behavioural needs or social and communication issues.

“And disabled young people and their parents and carers are having to deal with high levels of stress and anxiety.

“We want to raise spirits, awareness and funds so we can keep supporting our families throughout this crisis, at a time when other funding streams are reducing.”

The charity is also operating an emergency helpline for families and creating online friendship groups for the children it helps.

To help keep these vital services running, you can donate at justgiving.com/campaign/bigcheerup.

  • The coronavirus Sussex Crisis Fund has been set up to help those affected by the pandemic. The Argus’s charity and American Express have each donated £50,000 to kick-start the appeal. Grants will usually be for up to £5,000. More information is available at www.sussexgiving. org.uk/apply. To donate visit www.totalgiving.co.uk/appeal/sussexcrisisfund