Disabled children in Coventry are being given the opportunity to take part in a free programme of music and drama.
National children’s charity Caudwell Children are providing a weekly ASDAN accredited programme between October and November to help disabled children build confidence and develop social skills through the arts The programme has seen success in London, Liverpool, Staffordshire and Manchester and is now being offered free of charge to children in Coventry between the ages of eight and 18.
Emily Buttery, Short Breaks Coordinator for Caudwell Children said: “The programme uses a range of activities to help enhance confidence and build social skills Young people experience a range of activities including animation, a junk music workshop and team games to boost their confidence and help them improve social skills The scheme has had brilliant feedback from parents and children and we have seen amazing results with improvements in social skills, friendships and confidence.”
At the end of the programme children will receive a certificate and a portfolio of their achievements.
Children will be supported by trained buddies allowing parents to benefit from the respite the programme provides, knowing that their children are in safe hands. A parent whose disabled son attended previous workshops praised the benefits they had: “My son was very isolated at home, with not many friends. Coming to the Caudwell Children workshops has helped my son interact more with other kids and he is a lot happier”.
Trudi Beswick, CEO of Caudwell Children, said: “The ASDAN accredited programmes that Caudwell Children offer are a fantastic opportunity for children to try something new and develop their confidence. The success we have had with these programmes throughout the country and the way they help both disabled children and their families is the reason we continue to provide them. The children will have unforgettable experiences and build close friendships.”
The programme will run for five Saturday sessions from 26thOctober-23rd November. There is a choice of times either, 10am–2pm or 2-6pm. It will take place at St Peters Centre, Charles Street, Coventry, CV1 5NP. For more information contact Thomas Mills on 01782 600844 or email Tom.Mills@caudwellchildren.com