Nicholas Owen launches Rockinghorse appeal at Surrey respite centre

Tuesday 11 May 2010

Rockinghorse has launched its appeal to raise funds for a specialised playroom at Beeches Bungalow Respite Centre in Reigate.

The planned £75,000 sensory room will provide five to eighteen year olds who have physical and learning disabilities with a place to have fun, explore their environment or relax.

The room will be divided into four areas, each with a different focus to cater to varying ages, abilities and tastes. Film, music, lighting and texture will be used to help develop children’s social and communication skills with quiet or dark areas for relaxation.

The respite centre offers vital support to families who have children with special needs by offering day care services and overnight stays to help relieve some of the pressure and strains that parents can experience.

TV news journalist and local resident Nicholas Owen launched the appeal at Beeches Bungalow. He said: “I’m delighted to launch this important appeal for the new sensory room, which will clearly be of huge benefit to the children and families who use the centre. I'm especially pleased that children in our borough will benefit from this terrific project.”

Beeches’ services are provided by Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, the organisation providing health and social care services for children and adults in Surrey and North-East Hampshire with learning disabilities, mental health problems or drug and alcohol problems.

There are a number of ways you can get involved in making life better for sick children in your area. Whether it be by taking part in a challenge event, such as next year’s Brighton Marathon or a skydive; signing your business up as a Rockinghorse Corporate Champion and committing to raise £1,500 over the course of a year; or simply volunteering your time: there is a way for you to get involved.

To donate money to the campaign or to find out how you can get involved, contact us on 01273 730286.