THANKS to funding of £30,000 Challengers can develop a new sensory room at its Farnham Play Centre.

The charity, which delivers inclusive play and leisure opportunities for disabled children in the South East, received the grant from DM Thomas Foundation for Young People.

The room will aid communication, relaxation and mental well-being for children and young people who are all disabled, and due to the level of their impairments, may miss out on opportunities for play that their non-disabled peers take for granted. In over 80 per cent of cases, individuals may also suffer from mental illness or social isolation.

The foundation’s grant will be used to refurbish the room and purchase various sensory equipment, which will be used by qualified workers for engaging the children in play and teaching them about cause and effect, while also improving communication skills.

Simon Sheehan, director of DM Thomas Foundation for Young People, said: “We believe that every child should be able to play in a safe and welcoming environment, no matter what their abilities are.

“Farnham Play Centre’s new sensory room will provide disabled children and young people with exciting new experiences that will help them fulfil their potential, and we are extremely proud to make this possible.”

Laura Sercombe, CEO at Challengers said: “We cannot thank the DM Thomas Foundation for Young People enough for this incredible donation. Sensory Rooms and play are vital to the development of all children.

“Challengers are thrilled to be able to re furbish and update the area at Farnham and be able to offer a high quality space where children can have a fantastic time.”