When a family receives a wheelchair or buggy for their child, from their Local Authority, there is often a misconception that it will come fully equipped with everything that child needs to be comfortable.

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Unfortunately, for many disabled children, this simply isn’t the case, and local families are forced to turn to charities to make the chair fit for purpose.

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The Sunshine Fund is a North East charity that funds specialist equipment to improve the lives of babies, children and young people living with disabilities and terminal illness in the region.

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The charity regularly receives applications from families asking for accessories for their child’s wheelchair or buggy which, for many, isn’t functional without these additional features.

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These accessories can cost in their hundreds altogether, yet are essential to provide a basic level of comfort for children who already have complex needs.

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Some of the accessories asked for include:

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• Rain covers to keep dry

• Footmuffs to keep warm and cosy

• Thermal covers to protect against cold weather

• Sun canopies to protect against heat

• Baskets to store things (often medical equipment)

 

Comfort is a priority for all children, and those with disabilities or life-limiting illnesses shouldn’t be excluded.

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These items are especially important for children with additional needs because a lot of these kids have weak immune systems, making them more susceptible to illness during adverse weather.

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A lot of these children also have sensory needs, and certain weather conditions can make them dysregulated and overstimulated, so these extra items are an essential to allow a child to get out and about safely and comfortably.