Children in Clady enjoy inclusion summer scheme

 Inclusive play: children enjoyed a range of activities at Bann Valley Community Group’s Inclusion summer scheme, funded by the Housing Executive, including the Belfast Playbus.placeholder image
Inclusive play: children enjoyed a range of activities at Bann Valley Community Group’s Inclusion summer scheme, funded by the Housing Executive, including the Belfast Playbus. | NI Housing Executive

Activities over eight weeks included the Belfast soft play bus, developmental coaching, and two jump, jiggle and jive mornings

Children in Clady have enjoyed a summer of fun at Bann Valley Community Group’s Inclusion summer scheme, funded by the Housing Executive.

Activities over eight weeks included the Belfast soft play bus, developmental coaching, and two jump, jiggle and jive mornings.

Mary McErlean, Volunteer at Bann Valley Community Group, said: “Thanks to the Housing Executive for supporting our first inclusion summer scheme.

“Children had lots of fun and it was great to see them develop social skills and build confidence through the activities.”

Throughout the year, the group offers inclusive opportunities for local children with special educational needs.

Hours of fun: The Belfast soft play bus was one popular event at Bann Valley Community Group’s Inclusion summer scheme, funded by the Housing Executive.placeholder image
Hours of fun: The Belfast soft play bus was one popular event at Bann Valley Community Group’s Inclusion summer scheme, funded by the Housing Executive. | NI Housing Executive

As well as supporting parents to rest, recharge and connect with other parents, children and their siblings also benefit from inclusive play opportunities.

Jill Smyth, Area Manager at the Housing Executive, added: “Building on the Saturday morning classes during the year, this summer scheme supported local families through structured, inclusive activities.

“Events helped children to try new things, and build friendships in a safe environment.”

A cross-community summer youth programme delivered by Bann Valley Community Group, Upperlands Youth group and Bytes brought together more than 200 children and young people from Clady, Upperlands, and Portglenone.

Funded by the Housing Executive, the three-week programme helped young people connect and find common ground, while encouraging respect for different identities, cultures and traditions.

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