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Funding to continue our successful Epping Forest Inclusion Project has been secured from Action for Children-Essex Short Breaks.
The 18-month cash boost will enable us to continue this popular project which provides sports and leisure activities for children, young people and adults with SEND.
The project has been running since 2012 and during that time we’ve worked with nearly 900 children and young people.
Activities
Weekly activities include trampolining, golf, horse riding, and boxing. In the school holidays we run an action-packed activity programme to suit all abilities and needs. Days out, camping, forest fun and ‘own a pony’ mornings are just a small taste of what’s on offer.
The sessions and activities cater for all ages and abilities, and where possible we love to have siblings join us too.
Cllr Nigel Bedford, Cabinet Member for Community and Partnerships said: “We are grateful to Action for Children for this funding which allows us to carry on the vital work for many families across the district.”
A parent forum is part of the project, providing parents and carers with an opportunity to have a voice on what is provided for their children. The forum also runs training workshops to further support families.
Parent view
One mum said: “I have used the project for the past 3 years with my son. We have done term time activities and always make the most of the holiday activities. It’s a lifesaver for us. It gives us a fun, safe place to go where I can enjoy being with my child and watch him grow as a person.”
The project also works with local primary schools offering Compass Club and Gym Trail sessions, a mix of classroom work and physical activity. The sessions allow children to gain confidence, and learn social and communication skills while having fun in a relaxed environment with one of our coaches.
To keep up to date with all our latest news or to contact us, please like our Facebook – Epping Forest Disability Forum page.