Following a donation of £3,527 from the Pied Piper Appeal, used to purchase specialist sensory equipment, Leisure at Cheltenham is launching brand-new inflatable soft play sessions for SEND children this August 2025.
The new sessions offer a quieter, reduced-capacity setting where children under eight-years-old can enjoy inflatables and soft play with the support from their parent or guardian.
Some of the new additions to the play area include a giant inflatable igloo, LED sensory lighting, interactive floor tiles, sensory cushions and soft furnishings – all designed to support the requirements of children with additional needs in a calm and engaging environment.
A Gloucestershire-based charity, The Pied Piper Appeal is dedicated to improving the lives of sick and disabled children across the county, with its trustee, Julie Kent MBE, commenting that the sensory dome gives SEND children 'a space of their own to play, learn and thrive'.
The newly installed facilities form part of The Cheltenham Trust's 'wider commitment to inclusivity', ensuring its venues and programmes are 'welcoming, accessible and engaging for all'.
James Baker, interim CEO of The Cheltenham Trust, said: 'This gift [from the Pied Piper Appeal] will make a significant and lasting difference to the children and families we support, helping us to create more inclusive and accessible experiences across our venues.
'We are truly grateful for the Pied Piper Appeal’s continued commitment to improving the lives of children and young people with additional needs.'
The new SEND sessions at Leisure at Cheltenham will take place weekly from Wednesday 6 August 2025, from 10am until 11.30am.
More information on booking can be found on the Leisure at Cheltenham website.
