A LEADING Worcester charity has launched a new therapeutic play service after an £11,000 funding boost thanks to Worcestershire Freemasons.
Worcester Snoezelen, the charity with a sensory centre for people with disabilities and additional needs, uses evidence-based practice in play which helps children explore their thoughts and feelings in creative and dynamic ways.
A child may not have the words to describe how they are feeling, or why they are behaving as they do. They may not be able to recognise what they find difficult, or explain it to someone if asked.
Worcester Snoezelen’s Therapeutic Play sessions provide the expertise and time to do this through play.
The sessions aim to build a child’s ability to develop healthy relationships, and to work though traumatic experiences which may be preoccupying them.
This therapy is needed by many children and is proven to be effective in helping them with their mental health and wellbeing.
The Masonic Charitable Foundation’s funding will ensure the service can be offered consistently over its first 12 months, with regular slots for children aged five to 11 put forward by local Worcester primary schools.
The children will have 50-minute sessions of Therapeutic Play over 12 weeks or more to help with their emotional development.
Jane Roberts, chief officer at Worcester Snoezelen, said: “Many children suffer with anxieties, low self-esteem or sadly, experience trauma.
“These issues are magnified when children have additional needs or a disability. For those with extra needs this may take the form of self-harm, substance abuse or unhealthy relationships.
“Last year, our pilot project identified a huge need for this service, and now, with the benefit of this grant funding, over the next 12 months our qualified Therapeutic Play practitioner will lead sessions with children.
“This is needed so much at the moment by many children in the community.”
Stephen Wyer, the head of Worcestershire Freemasons, nominated Worcester Snoezelen for the funding.
Stephen and his wife, Helen, visited Worcester Snoezelen to meet the team as the project was starting.
“We were delighted to be able to nominate Snoezelen for this grant award to support the marvellous work which they continue to do for children with additional needs in Worcester,” he added.
“We look forward to seeing the new play service develop over the coming months and years.”
