Multi-sensory facility for children with disabilities

Sumner four-year-old Meg Weston, who has a neurological disorder, will be one of the children who will enjoy the multi-sensory room.

A Multi-Sensory Facility at Queen Elizabeth II Park will provide sensory stimulation and relaxation for children with severe disabilities.

Scheduled to open in March 2001, the room will be a non-threatening safe environment where the primary senses are stimulated by music, lighting effects, gentle vibrations, aromatherapy and tactile boards.

"Children with severe disabilities will be given the opportunity to explore, make choices, have some control over their physical environment, relax and have fun," says Trisha Ventom, the Council's KiwiAble Co-ordinator. "Because the facility is to be based at QE11 it will be totally inclusive, families, friends, individuals and service providers will be able to access the facility. It is envisaged that once the facility is up and running it will be open to adults and other groups."

The Multi Sensory Facility is a project of Turning Point 2000 and is being established under the Children 2000 Advisory Group. The Kiwanis have played a major role in supporting and raising funds for the equipment and resources to be based at the facility.

Other supporters of the facility include Christchurch City Council Leisure and the Lotteries Board. Trisha says tenders for concept designs are being accepted with a Multi Sensory Facility Coordinator being appointed by December ready for the opening early next year.

For more information contact
Trisha Ventom on phone 941 8774, fax 371-1267 or email Trisha.Ventom@ccc.govt.nz