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Here at The Sunshine Fund, we're determined to open the doors for children with additional needs to brand new experiences that they might not otherwise try due to accessibility and cost.
Our main provision is funding specialist equipment that isn’t available through the NHS, despite making a significant improvement to their day-to-day lives. However, we also organise free and inclusive events for the kids we have supported.
One of these events took place over summer in Amble, where two small groups of Sunshine Kids went out on speedboats for an exhilarating experience. They got to accelerate over the waves and feel the bumps of the sea underneath them.
This was facilitated by Wetwheels Yorkshire, a community-driven group who deliver speedboat experiences specifically designed so adults and children with additional needs can enjoy the sea at high speeds in a safe and inclusive environment.
The team at Wetwheels provide engaging and interactive sessions, and the children were able to drive the boat, make splashes and donuts in the water, and they even spotted some seals along the way.
One of the kids in attendance was 9-year-old Alfie, whose Dad, Joe, said, “It’s been absolutely incredible. We’ve been very lucky to have The Chronicle Sunshine Fund looking after us today.”
“They’ve been fantastic this year, they’ve supplied us with an amazing off-road wheelchair which has changed Alfie’s life. It allows him to go anywhere he wants and it’s improved my fitness no end as I have to chase him along the beach.”
“It’s opened up a whole new world, and Wetwheels this morning has been absolutely amazing. It’s the most he’s smiled all year and it’s been so amazing having such a lovely group of people looking out for Alfie.”
These events are so important as they bring families together, improve bonds with siblings, and allows kids to create and cherish memories that might not be possible otherwise.
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