Leek Boy One of First to Receive Sensory Kit During Covid-19 Pandemic

Eleven-year-old Jared Stonier is among the first recipients of innovative new equipment to provide disabled children with sensory activities in their own home.

Jared, from Leek in Staffordshire, received the equipment from Caudwell Children as part of a UK-first charity campaign to deliver sensory equipment and 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 Stonier, has already noticed the benefits the equipment brings.

Charlotte 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 to make a very balanced and engaging sensory pack. 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 Covid-19 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: “Our Get Sensory Packs are designed to support children who are likely to benefit from sensory resources – it’s so encouraging to hear that Jared is enjoying using the equipment and his family can see the benefits already.”

“We’ve committed to provide 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 life-changing 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.

The packs include:

–          A Liquid Cell Timer,

–          Scented Bubbles,

–          A BoBo Massager,

–          Sissle Brush,

–          4 Ball Massager,

–          Weighted Cushion,

–          Spikey Domes,

–          Space Blanket, and

–          A Fibre Optic Lamp.

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% of the cost of each pack.

Families will be asked to contribute 20% of the cost, which is £20, and to confirm their financial status and their child’s diagnosis. More information is available at getsensorypacks.com.

Tony Walley
Tony Walley
News & Sport Editor

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