SENSORY SUPPORT FOR JARED
A LEEK youngster is among the first recipients of innovative new equipment to provide disabled children with sensory activities in their own home.
Jared Stonier, 11, received the equipment from Caudwell Children as part of a Uk-first charity campaign to deliver sensory support to disabled children across the country.
The sensory pack will provide a range of therapeutic benefits for Jared, who has Autism Spectrum Disorder, helping him engage with his family and regulate his emotions. Jared’s mum, Charlotte, said she has already noticed the benefits the equipment brings.
She said: “We applied for the Get Sensory Pack on the Caudwell Children website, which was a simple application. As soon as it arrived it was a big hit with Jared, which is quite unusual when it comes to toys.
“He seemed to know what to do with everything straight away, without needing assistance. Usually, he is on the move looking for things to do to occupy himself, which can be very difficult. “The Get Sensory Pack has been great for keeping him interested, it’s fun and very calming. There is a great selection of toys which all complement each other. It really has been wonderful.
“I would encourage people to donate as these packs are going directly to help and support the needs of children who find things more difficult.” Caudwell Children has pledged to provide thousands of families with essential sensory equipment during the pandemic – with each family receiving a pack of appropriate and safe toys to support children living with a wide range of disabilities.
Trudi Beswick, CEO of Caudwell Children, said: “It’s great to hear Jared is enjoying using the equipment and his family can see the benefits already.
“Our packs are designed to support children who are likely to benefit from sensory resources. We’ve committed to providing thousands of families with a pack, because we know it’s difficult to access resources at the moment.
“To deliver on that we’re now calling for anyone who can, to make a difference to the life of a disabled child by donating to our Get Sensory Packs campaign – you can make a lifechanging difference from just £5.”
Caudwell Children launched its Get Sensory Packs campaign following consultation with parents to find the most appropriate and safe sensory items – selected by the charity’s Occupational Therapists.
Packs are available to children who have a confirmed disability or chronic illness.
Families can apply directly to Caudwell Children for support, with the charity providing 80 per cent of the cost of each pack. Families will be asked to contribute 20 per cent of the cost, which is £20, and to confirm their financial status and their child’s diagnosis. More information is available at getsensorypacks.com