Proud mums have applauded an event for people with special needs that was hosted by SPUC Scotland.

The event, “Night to Shine”, which took place last week, was an unforgettable prom night experience, centred on God’s love for people with special needs aged 14 and older.

With support from St Robert Bellarmine RC Church, SPUC Scotland was thrilled to be able to host the 2021 event in Scotland.

“A fantastic outreach”

75 guests of honour partook in the event. Each of them received their individual gift pack, which helped them to celebrate their virtual Night to Shine at home. Their gift pack included a crown or tiara, a pizza voucher and fun treats including sweets, glow sticks, funky glasses and bubbles.

Angela Mui, the proud mother of one guest of honour, said that she was surprised at just how much her son enjoyed the whole experience.

Nancy Primrose, the mother of another honoured guest, said that her daughter changed outfits several times in the lead up. It was a fantastic outreach and much appreciated. 

“A red carpet experience brought to their doorstep”

Emmet Dooley, “Night to Shine” Scotland Organiser, said: “The event was a roaring success. It was fantastic to see the smiles on the faces of our guests of honour as we tried to bring the red carpet VIP experience to their doorstep.

“Everybody knows when they are being fussed over and made to feel special and loved, and that's what they got. When the Night to Shine event was streaming eight hours ahead of America I got to hop in the car and fix up our guest of honour, Nicky’s, smart TV. She was in her ball gown all set for her night to shine.

“Many of our guests of honour have been shielded away from their normal lives for months on end and that's why I couldn't cancel the 2021 Night to Shine.

"Our hope is that this event will act as a catalyst for change on how culture embraces people with special needs and to rally individuals to stand up for those who are differently-abled and for the inherent dignity of every human life."