Two groups of pupils from Holly Grove Special School in Burnley enjoyed a short break in Blackpool, thanks to the Happy Days Charity and a donation from the Wain Foundation.
Every year, Holly Grove organises a three-day residential in Blackpool for a small group of primary aged pupils, giving them the chance to experience the resort’s beach, iconic tower and famous circus.
For many of the children, it’s their first time away from home. Ryan Sinclair, Chief Executive of Happy Days said: “These new experiences push the boundaries of what the children can achieve in the best possible and fun way. It not only helps with sensory awareness but improves their independence and life skills development.
“Thanks to a donation of £1,500 from the Wain Foundation we were able to help fund the trip.”
Holly Grove provides a specialist learning environment for pupils with a wide range of learning difficulties, including moderate and severe learning needs, complex needs and autism. The annual seaside break is a highlight for older pupils.
Katie Wood from the school said: “We are very grateful to both the Wain Foundation and Happy Days for making this trip possible.
“The children had the best time splashing in the sea and eating ice-cream. Being away from home is a major milestone in their development and helps boost their social and personal confidence.”
Happy Days is based in Hitchen, Hertforshire, and helps create special experiences for children with additional needs right across the UK. Since it was founded 30 years ago, the charity has supported over 400,000 children.
But the demand remains high, Ryan added: “we receive requests from Individual parents, groups and schools from all over the country. We review each application and then begin the work of raising funds to make their day happen.
“The waiting time can be up to 12 months, as we priorities the most urgent cases, but we get there in the end.
“The responses we get from parents and children makes it all worthwhile. I will never forget one little girl who told us her day out: “made me smile in my tummy!”
“That’s what we do – we make the happiness happen.”