A series of free activities - including canoeing and angling - is being organised for children with disabilities in Stoke-on-Trent.
The Aiming High for Disabled Children programme which will be launched later this month has been put developed as a partnership between Stoke-on-Trent City Council and NHS Stoke on Trent and will run until March 2011.
The aim of the activities is to give children enjoyable experiences away from their carer as well as giving carers a break from their responsibilities.
Children can take part in a range of activities such as angling, canoeing, film club, dance workshops and much more.
The programme can also provide one-to-one carers, overnight stays and access to organisations which provide additional help and support to carers of disabled children. It also aims to increase awareness of the needs of children and young people with disabilities and their families.
Sarah Chattaway, Joint Commissioning Manager for the city council’s children and young people’s services said:
“These activities provide excellent opportunities for children with disabilities to enjoy new experiences, interact with their peers and discover their independence. Parents and carers are also given valuable ‘me’ time to relax whilst knowing their child is well cared for.”
Cabinet member for children and young people’s services, Councillor Ian Mitchell, said:
“These short breaks are an excellent opportunity for the children and young people to experience a really diverse range of sports and activities. It also means the parents and carers can take a break from caring safe in the knowledge their children are being well looked after.”
Andrea Westlake, Programme Manager Children, Young People and Maternity Services, NHS Stoke on Trent, said:
“Aiming High for Disabled Children contributes to the PCT Strategy to reduce health and social inequalities and improve the well being and aspirations of this vulnerable group of children and young people.”
Parents of children with disabilities can find out more about the scheme by attending a meet and greet day on Monday 15 February at the Civic Centre’s Windsor Room from 10am-2pm. People involved in providing the activities as well as support services and city council staff will be on hand to answer any questions.
For more information about the meet and greet day or about the Aiming High for Disabled Children programme, please call Zoe Booth on 01782 233046.
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