THE Deputy Prime Minister has been finding out more about a safe enclosed space which allows children to get to grips with outdoor play equipment.
Ashton-under-Lyne MP Angela Rayner joined local families at a Nature Explorers event specially designed for children with special educational needs and their caregivers.
The Mencap Family Engagement Project works across Tameside to support families of children aged five and below with special educational needs (SEND) or emerging additional needs.
The team who organise the sessions based at the Community Green Allotment in Dukinfield, where the MP visited, have lived experience of parenting children with additional needs.
Giving a unique opportunity for peer support, they work to empower parents by providing emotional support, encouragement, knowledge and understanding.
The session was part of the thriving Community Green Project run by The Leap Children and Families Centre at Dukinfield Allotments. Set up three years ago, the project has gone from strength to strength.
The centre runs a range of horticultural and nature based groups on the allotment and have partnered up with Mencap, Tameside Hospital, local nurseries and GP services to support people’s mental health and well being through nature.
“This event gave children with SEND the chance to have fun and meet other local families in an environment that was secure,” said Ms Rayner.
“It was great to chat to families taking up this opportunity. Thank you to the team for putting on such a brilliant event.”
More information and future events can be found at https://tamesidelocaloffer.co.uk/