A MUM has celebrated the installation of a new accessible piece of play equipment.
A wheelchair swing has been installed at Marbury Country Park by Cheshire West and Chester Council.
First to take it for a ride was Annabelle Povey, with her mother Mandy.
Mandy said: “The fact that the installation is next to the main playground also gives our children and yes, parents and carers, the feeling of inclusion in the simple joys of play is an added bonus.
“This is the best gift ever as they at last are able to experience the excitement of going to the park and actually joining in instead of just being onlookers.”
Coming out of the Covid pandemic, Annabelle had grown too big and so wasn’t able to fit on swings without the assistance of three adults.
At this same time, she started to suffer from epileptic fits which could occur at any moment, making using existing swings unsafe.
This pushed Mandy and her friend Kay Warren to make it their personal mission to get a wheelchair swing installed.
“I have been fighting for the past two years to get this happen,” said Kay.
“With more than 100 CWAC playgrounds it is sad this is the first one to actually get a wheelchair swing.
“Other ‘inclusive’ equipment isn't always suitable for a child who requires a chair.
“The swings are far better for the children as they often have sensory issues, but the gentle sway can be calming.”
Mandy added: "Huge thanks to all concerned who listened to our plea for a wheelchair swing.
“To be able to give our children who miss out on so much, the chance to experience a swing just like the other children, is something that is deeply moving.”
CWAC approached the social enterprise company PiPA Play (Plan Inclusive Play Areas) to review a selection of key council-managed play areas.
A key recommendation from PiPA was that the play area at Marbury Park should be considered for a wheelchair swing.
Marbury was considered the most appropriate location for the wheelchair swing due to its recently installed all-inclusive children's play area, adjacent Changing Places facility and extensive parking.
The council's cabinet member for children and young people, Cllr Adam Langan, said: “This is marvellous news for Marbury Park. I’m sure the new swing is already a much-loved piece of equipment for many young wheelchair users.
“A wheelchair swing has many benefits. It gives young wheelchair users an understanding of our world and our space from a different perspective, making them more aware of their surroundings, increases blood flow to the brain creating a better environment for focus and attention, and the endorphins triggered can really boost their mood.
“Of course, it also provides the perfect opportunity for parents and carers to spend quality time with their child. Please remember to have a radar key with you for opening the gate to access the swing.”
The full £25,000 cost of the equipment has been covered by local company INEOS Inovyn's Landfill Community Fund.
A radar key is needed to open the gate to access the swing.
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