Disability charity the Percy Hedley Foundation has reached its £120,000 target to fund an inclusive sensory play area for students.
The new sensory play area at Northern Counties School in Jesmond, which will cost £120,000 to create, will include wheelchair accessible roundabouts, swings, sensory tools, and a water feature memorial to honour students that have passed away.
With over 20% of the population at Northern Counties using wheelchairs, this project is said to have a “transformational impact” on the students.
The fundraising total was topped up by the recent Percy Hedley ‘Reach for the Stars’ Ball on Saturday 22nd November at the Hilton Gateshead, where over 250 guests attended to raise vital funds to support this project. The evening was sponsored by North East care recruitment provider Standby Healthcare.
John Preston, Chief Executive of the Percy Hedley Foundation, said:
“This year’s charity ball has completely exceeded expectations.”
“Events like our recent Reach for the Stars ball wouldn’t be possible without the generosity, support and belief from those around us. This year is particularly special as we have now raised enough money to create our sensory play area that will be accessible for every pupil to use and enjoy regardless of ability, improving social skills and promoting independence. This will have a transformational impact for our students”.
Supported by a £30,000 grant from the Sir James Knott Trust, which was then match-funded by Winn Group, and a £20,000 grant from the Catherine Cookson Charitable Trust, attendees of the ball helped to raise the remaining funds to begin the creation of the play area.
Ross Jackson, Deputy CSR Lead at Winn Group, said:
“It’s an amazing cause to support and one that is deeply embedded into the lives of so many across the North East.”
“As a proud Newcastle-based organisation, we’ve sought charities that provide life-changing support to youngsters in the region. Suffice to say, Percy Hedley fits the criteria perfectly, setting students up for a brighter future thanks to the hard work and expertise of those working there and the enthusiasm of the children.”
Plans to begin the creation of the sensory play area are set to be confirmed soon.
