Tracks Autism, an autistic specialist pre-school provision in Stevenage has recently unveiled their brand new playground, part of their SEND educational provision, thanks to generous donations from several funders. TRACKS Autism (rated outstanding with Ofsted) is highly unusual in that they receive no government funding and rely heavily on fundraising and donors in order to provide their services to families.
The old playground had become completely unsuitable for the high needs autistic children in TRACKS’ care, with the flooring coming away in chunks and dated equipment. The brand new playground was opened at a ribbon cutting ceremony by Andy Onyeama-Christie who along with 8 full international caps for Scotland and 93 for Saracens showed them how fast the slide could really go!
Jane Wagstaff, principal of TRACKS Autism says ‘Our new playground has been enjoyed by all the children. It has offered a challenge from practicing walking up the steps, to climbing up the climbing wall. The new safety/play surface offers opportunities for pedalling the tricycles and enjoying much loved games of chase with staff’.
In a world where funding is very competitive for charities TRACKS is incredibly grateful and honoured to have received in total the sum of £36,000 to complete the much needed works. A huge thank you goes out from them to all funders, Wooden Spoon, The Hobson Charity, Bernard Sunley Foundation, Edward Gostling Foundation and The Stevenage Community Trust. The beautiful new playground will be loved by hundreds of children over the years.
John Batters says ‘Wooden Spoon is the children’s charity of Rugby and as the chairman of the Hertfordshire Region, I am delighted that we have been able to complete this project for TRACKS. Wooden Spoon is a dynamic and impactful charity that is dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young people through the power of the Rugby community.’
TRACKS were joined on the day by members of Wooden Spoon along with Rob Case from the Stevenage Community Trust. Rob states ‘The trust is commencing it’s 35th year helping the people and communities of Stevenage. TRACKS is a terrific example of the sort of project the Trust was formed to help. It touches so many individuals positively. Not just the children but their families too. Through my grandson Dylan I know the challenges and joy parenting an autistic child can bring. It was fantastic to meet some of the great team at TRACKS who obviously take joy in addressing those challenges’.
TRACKS has been a vital lifeline to families with Autistic children in Stevenage and across North Hertfordshire for over 20 years now and with continuing and generous funding they hope to continue and expand their services in a world where the pressing family and child needs continue to far outstrip the level of suitable provision and support.
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