An inclusive play park in Haydon Wick received its grand opening recently, much to the delight of the local community and in particular, a mother who campaigned for a place like this for her disabled son. 

Rebecca, who started local charity Benjamin’s Smile, and her son, Benjamin, cut the ribbon at the Luna Close play park. 

 

The pair, along with young carers from Oakhurst Community Primary School, councillors Richard Hailstone, Steve Heyes and John Jackson and council staff celebrated with bubbles, doughnuts and balloons.

This is part of an £80,000 investment into local parks by the council, which will also see the Gaynor Close park get refurbished. 

Benjamin’s Smile and Oakhurst Community Primary were consulted on what they wanted to see in the park, accessible elements like a high back swing, widened slide and accessible roundabout were added. 

Rebecca said: “I am so happy with how Luna Close Play Area looks and can’t believe that already this is happening to two other play parks in the area. It is an amazing achievement and has happened so quickly.

"This project has had such an impact on so many people. The community now have a play park that all children can use. The accessible equipment means that children with disabilities can play but also can be used by all ages and abilities.

"The children from our school have become so aware of inclusion in general, I often have children approach me and tell me they have visited somewhere where they have seen other accessible equipment. The children from our school (especially our Young Carers who helped fundraise) are extremely proud of what they have achieved and are grateful they can now play all together. I think this is the key point, this play area is completely inclusive now!

"I first began this appeal as it became impossible to bring my children to the park. Benjamin’s siblings wanted to play but equally wanted to play with their brother and to see Benjamin getting upset as he wasn’t able to join in made it a heart-breaking outing.

"Fast forward to today, Benjamin’s brothers can now push him on the roundabout, the swings and watch him play with the sensory equipment. It really has/will change our lives and it certainly is showing ‘Benjamin’s infectious smile’.

"I never expected the amount of support that has been shown towards inclusion in our area and at the speed it has been. However, Haydon Wick Parish Council have not only shown their support but more importantly they have acted upon it and that is why we are here, unveiling Luna Close Play Area today”.

Young carers lead for Oakhurst Community Primary School, Karen Taylor, said: “The Young Carers in our school have put so much into raising money towards the inclusive play park.

"They have run the ‘O Factor’ talent show, a non-uniform day and various other events and presentations to raise money and awareness. This is exactly what has happened, the awareness and appreciation in our school for inclusion is at an all-time high.

Luna Close Play Area looks fantastic, you would think it has always been this way. It is great that now all the children can now have fun together!”

A third play area, on Voyager Drive, is now set to be resurfaced as well.