LAUGHTER and smiles are in order after an accessible swing has been installed at Hockley Heath Park.
In the summer Annabel Goodman feared her daughter wouldn’t be able to take her daily trips to the park and go on the swing as she grew up.
Annabel said she was been left with a sprained wrist, pulled shoulder and back muscles after lifting her Libby in and out of the swings at Hockley Heath park.
But all that has now changed as an accessible swing has been put into place for children of all abilities to enjoy.
Libby has Down’s syndrome she also has mobility problems associated with the condition including poor balance, hypertonia, hyper mobility and she is registered severely sight impaired so is unable to safely use the swings aimed at older children.
Annabel said: “The new accessible swing is fabulous as are the other improvements to the park.
“Libby has enjoyed the park even more and our neighbour’s son who spent 30 minutes in the swing and was smiling continuously throughout.
“His delight was wonderful to see.
“It was his first visit to the his village park for years, since he grew out of the baby swings.
“What a great accomplishment.”
The swing at the park is designed to be used with a harness which would need to be purchased if parents wish their children to have one.
The chair of Hockley Heath Parish Council, Councillor Peter Rayson, said: “ Hockley Heath Parish Council is delighted that Libby, her friend and others are now able to better access the park and have fun. We are indebted to Mrs Goodman for her advice and making us aware of the gap in provision.”
Annabel has joined disability charity Scope’s campaign Let’s Play Fair: inclusive playgrounds which is calling for the Government to invest in a inclusive playgrounds fund so all children can be themselves.
She also spoke at the Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham last year about the need for accessible play for all children to enjoy.
