"My son Jack managed his first bicycle ride because of the specialised equipment provided - I cannot express how wonderful it was to see everyone enjoying themselves,” according to parent Amy Conroy speaking after the Children’s Disability Network Team (CDNT) Family Fun Day held in Sligo in recent weeks.
Amy added: “Everything was so well thought out, especially in relation to the sensory needs of the kids. I’m so grateful for the care and consideration the team put into this day. What a wonderful job you all did. Thank you to all the team at the CDNT for a magical Family Fun Day. Please run this event again.”
Held in the Knocknarea Arena, the event brought together over 1000 people, with more than 80 families, for a day of fun, inclusion and community engagement, with a wide range of activities designed to ensure that children and young people of all abilities could participate.
Organised by the HSE Children’s Disability Network Team, the day provided opportunities to create, explore and play, with activities including accessible sports and games, accessible bikes and trikes, art workshops, sing-along sessions, dancing, a pet farm and a dedicated sensory room.
Special guests included Sligo Fire Service who came along with a fire truck, while An Garda Síochána were also in attendance along with the Sligo Rovers’ mascot Benny.
Mary Durcan, HSE Children's Disability Network Team Manager, Sligo South Donegal Community Healthcare Area, outlined how they had wanted to “create a memorable day for the children and families supported by the service.
“With the sun shining, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Families had the opportunity to spend quality time together, connect with other families and engage with HSE staff in a relaxed setting. The event was very well received, with positive feedback from families highlighting the friendly atmosphere, range of activities and sense of inclusion throughout the day. Overall, the event was a great success and demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for children with disabilities and their families to come together, have fun and feel valued within their community.
“We would like to thank all of the families who attended, the staff and volunteers involved in planning and delivering the event, and all of the organisations and community partners who helped make the day such a success.”