SPACE is a small charity that provides a fun, safe and accessible environment where children with disabilities and additional needs can play and learn whilst also providing support and resources to their parents and carers.
The charity was founded in 2014 as a group of parents were frustrated by the lack of appropriate play resources and support for their children with additional needs in Chester. The parents decided to take matters into their own hands and together they set up SPACE that initially ran play sessions in hired community rooms until opening a dedicated play centre in 2019.
Open 7 days a week, the facility includes a padded sensory room, activity room, an accessible kitchen and a separate space for parents. With activities such as family play sessions, after school clubs, parent counselling and even birthday parties, it provides an environment where everyone can thrive, with non-disabled siblings also welcome.
One mum comments ‘I truly don’t have the words for how being a part of SPACE has influenced and improved our lives, it has been absolutely huge. Meeting other mums who understand has honestly changed my life. The friendships and connections I’ve made have given me the kind of support I didn’t even realise I was missing. Through SPACE, I’ve learned so much and they’ve connected me with services I’d never have known about otherwise.”
The Chester Bluecoat Charity is pleased to be able to support the remarkable work of SPACE with £7,500 towards their annual running costs. This will contribute towards up to 1,000 children having the opportunity to socialise and learn new skills in a safe environment. Parents from 600 families will also be supported with information, coping mechanisms and a peer support network, helping to improve their overall wellbeing.
Jemma, CEO and founder of SPACE says “We at SPACE are extremely grateful for this generous grant, which will make a real difference in continuing the vital support we provide to families. We are seeing an increasing number of families in need, and this funding will help us reach even more of them, relieving isolation and giving parents and carers the support they need in raising a child with additional needs.”
