We were delighted to be invited down to visit a new community group in Bradley Stoke this weekend.

Stay & Play is a safe environment for parents/carers to bring their children who have additional needs as well as their siblings. The idea was put together by parents who attend Christ the King and whose children have Special Needs.

From 1pm till 5pm every Saturday, in a very spacious environment, the children can enjoy playing with their friends and family, with plenty of multi sensory toys that suit all children with different disabilities. Parents/carers meet up, chat and share information whilst enjoying the free tea/coffee and cake.

Feedback from families is that the area is lacking this type of provision and they are fully supporting the project:

‘It’s a complete life saver! The place we used to go as a family isn’t as accessible to families as it used to be. Now, one day a week, we have somewhere to go. The children are happy to see familar faces of friends they’ve met before. Unlike most softplays there are no financial limitations, you just give what you can afford. A friend wanted to come along with her child but required a ‘mobile hoist’ so they are trying to get one! I was really impressed by how welcome we’ve been made to feel.’

‘I was chocked up with emotion when I found out we had somewhere we could go to as a family, to forfill what is no longer accessible to us at other softplays.’

Although parents/carers are responsible for their children at all times, occasionally there are volunteers who stay and help play with the children. A special mention must go to Greggs in Bradley Stoke who provided the cakes and whose Area Manager has also helped out as a volunteer.

Donations of cakes, money and help with tidying up is always appreciated!

For further infomation www.facebook.com/groups/additionalneedsbristol

If you have any questions, please email jenniferprewett@yahoo.com