New Kirkby group offers support and sensory fun for children with learning disabilities and their families

Children with learning disabilities and their families in Ashfield will soon be able to take part in sensory activities thanks to a new group starting in the New Year in Kirkby.
Jemma Lee, 32 who is launching support group for children with learning disabilities and their families,  and daughter Evie 3Jemma Lee, 32 who is launching support group for children with learning disabilities and their families,  and daughter Evie 3
Jemma Lee, 32 who is launching support group for children with learning disabilities and their families, and daughter Evie 3

Kirkby mum Jemma Lee has set up the Rainbow Hearts Support Groups to create a bright atmosphere for young people aged from 0-18 to have sensory fun, play and activities.

Jemma said: “I noticed there weren’t any groups like this in Kirkby to help people with autism, Aspergers and cerebral palsy, the sort of young people who need sensory support and somewhere to go - within a nature environment.

So I decided to do all I could to help set one up.”

The groups working together with Ashfield District Council, will be based at Cafe Bosco at Portland Park, Kirkby and will be running two sessions a week - one for young children aged 0-5 and the other for older children.

Jemma added: “Having a brother with Autism, surely opened my eyes. I created Rainbow Hearts Support Groups to help local families and carers relax and make friends with other like minded people with similar interests.

“All learning disabilities diagnosed or not, are welcome.

“We will also have mentor sessions for parents or carers needing that extra bit of help. It will be a nature environment, there will be a sensory play area and a wood at the back.”

The group has planned an open day at Cafe Bosco on January 15 and is appealing for donations of toys and craft donations.

For more information on the group visit its Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/RainbowHeartsGroups.

The groups will support all types of Spectrum Disorders, from Autism to Pervasive Development Disorder.

Jenna said: “Having worked in the Mental Health and Learning Disabilities sector for over six years, I was determined to make a difference and this is my little way of showing how I can.

“Our groups are non profit and we literally just want the best for our future generation of Rainbow Hearts.

“We want to make children’s eyes light up with excitement.

“Help, advice, support and fun are to be had at each session.

“We personalise every group so each individual has something to look forward to each week.”

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