Fine Weather and Fun for Parents In Touch

Big family outing for Chiswick based voluntary organisation

Information

Parents and caregivers who wish to have their views represented can join PiT by sending an email to parentsintouch@btconnect.com or writing to:

Parents in Touch, St Denys House, Church Street, Chiswick W4 2PD

PiT members receive a newsletter providing information on disabled-friendly activities, including the chance to meet with other caregivers, and are able to access information and support.
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Chiswick based voluntary organisation Parents in Touch (PiT) hosted a trip to Thames Valley Adventure Playground last week.

Two minibuses full of parents, disabled children and their siblings were able to visit the special playground in Taplow, Berkshire thanks to funding received from Daytrippers, the charity founded in 2003 to help children with disabilities, life limiting and terminal illnesses enjoy amazing experiences that otherwise might not be available to them. Additional funding was received from Hounslow Council’s Chiswick Area Committee.

Children and caregivers alike enjoyed a day of fine weather and playing on the new “cool” fort as well as more familiar activities. New visitors Clara and her daughter Persia (4) were thrilled with the playground. “It’s the first place we’ve been to that is totally safe,” said Clara. “We’ll definitely come again.”

Jared (9) enjoyed the softplay and the wheelchair accessible roundabout, whilst his twin, George, entertained everyone one with his new Indiana Jones story. Menaka, mum to Nikitha and Navreen said, “I’m on the run, but I still love it!”

“It’s a new approach for us to seek funding for a specific trip and we’re so pleased with this success that we’ll definitely attempt it again.” PiT Secretary and trip participant, Karen Adams summed up.

Significantly, a large number of the other playground users were there on respite breaks for carers. Such was the positive feedback that members of PiT are wondering why there isn’t such a facility in Hounslow. The substantial capital figure included in the new Short Breaks for Carers funding would be well-spent on an outstanding facility like this that caters for a wide range of needs.

PiT will make the case for the funding to be used to make a real difference by providing something tangible for the children to enjoy, rather than shoring-up existing provision, as has happened in the past and was hinted at in the recent Carer’s Consultation event. Members will seek to influence spending decisions in the borough by continuing to take part in the consultation process.


 September 4, 2008