Progress to Date

The appointment of a full-time officer to implement the short breaks initiative

Increased awareness of disability across key strategic partners

A specific working group under the Children’s Trust which focuses on Special Educational Needs, learning difficulties and disabilities

Strategic input from parents into decision-making, policy development and service delivery

An information officer –based at FIZ – to provide information to families of disabled children and young people

An Aiming High website and newsletters with up-to-date information

Five consultation events which have received input from parents, professionals and providers of social and leisure activities

A new sign/symbol website for children and young people called ‘Askability’

Support from the Children’s Society to enable young people to have a say in improving services for disabled people

A whole new range of specially-commissioned services from experienced providers and local providers with a range of enthusiasm and innovative ideas!

Increased overnight stays, outreach and tea visits at Beaulieu House

Continued funding for a Learning Disability Nurse who can provide training and outreach for parents

More support for ‘Family Link’ to encourage more carers to join – 10 new carers to date

Four new staff to support outreach in the community and home-based care from the Carisbrooke Contact Centre

Better data collection and the relaunch of the Children’s Disability Register in order to improve the delivery of services

Commitment to the Every Disabled Child Matters Charter

Improved facilities and equipment for disabled children and young people

A growth in parent-run groups for children in sport and social activities

Support from Play Rangers who help disabled children to access play activities and fun!

Training – new opportunities to improve your skills in working with a disabled child. New opportunities for everyone to ensure that their practice is inclusive.

Three Landeez all-terrain wheelchairs which are based at Dinosaur Isle and Beaulieu House for hire or use by children and young people.

A purpose-built caravan at Lower Hyde Park, Shanklin which can offer a family of up to six members a short break with free passes for facilities at the Park.

A range of commissioned activities ranging from watersports, to tree climbing, to fishing, to specialist play and day camp experiences.

A purpose-built play ground at Beaulieu House for children and young people to share.

Adapted tables and hoists at some of the leisure centres on the Island.

Alignment with the Play Build strategy to ensure that playgrounds are more inclusive.