When Waverley parents Chris and Eve Fordham realised that their son Nino was struggling to use the swings at their local Phillips Memorial Park play area in Godalming, they turned to Waverley Borough Council for help.
Their son Nino, who is disabled, was finding it difficult to use his favourite swing and was unable to use other equipment at the playground.
Waverley immediately looked at options and ordered an ergonomic chair swing which is specifically designed to cater to children with disabilities and is, in fact, already being used at the Wentworth Close play area in Farnham. It was installed at the end of June.
The Fordhams commented: "We were totally blown away by the understanding and professionalism we received from Waverley Borough Council and the speed in which they managed to help. This is so much more than just a swing that Nino can use, this is something that will bring so much joy, not only for us, but for all parents and carers of children who need equipment with additional support.
"We also wanted to thank Busbridge Infant and Busbridge Junior Schools for the support that they have shown our family as well as Nino’s school, Portesbery, which is truly magic."
Councillor Steve Williams, Waverley Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Environment and Sustainability, said: “I am so pleased we could support Nino and his parents. As a council, we strive to provide high quality public services which are accessible to all; delivered fairly and with an understanding of where need is greatest. It is so important that we provide play areas that cater for all children, whether able bodied or not and I hope Nino, and others, spend many happy hours on the new swing.”
The council will look to replace more traditional flat swing seats with inclusive seats at other play areas in the borough. Wentworth Close play area in Farnham and Lashmere play area in Cranleigh are two of the recent refurbishments where inclusivity and accessibility for children of all abilities were key factors in the designs.
As part of the ongoing improvements to recreational facilities for children and young people in the borough, three more play areas across Farnham, Hascombe and Farncombe are being refurbished and the council have been looking for residents’ views. The consultation is now closed but to find out more details on the council’s play areas, you can visit Waverley Borough Council - Play Area Refurbishments.