Wooden Spoon Makes Impact at Twickenham with Sensory Room and Charity Drive

On Saturday 15th September 2024, Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby, took center stage at the home of England Rugby, the Allianz Stadium, Twickenham. Volunteers from the charity descended on the stadium for the Red Roses’ much-anticipated match against the Black Ferns, seizing the opportunity to raise awareness and collect donations for projects across the UK and Ireland. The event also marked the official opening of a new sensory room at the stadium, a milestone in Wooden Spoon’s ongoing mission to support and include children with special needs in the rugby community.

Fifteen dedicated volunteers, armed with collection buckets, greeted the passionate crowd at Twickenham, encouraging fans to contribute to Wooden Spoon’s various initiatives aimed at improving the lives of children. The day was made even more special by the return of Red Roses prop and Wooden Spoon ambassador, Sarah Bern, who was back in the starting lineup for England.

Sarah Bern’s connection to the sensory room project is deeply personal. After seeing her nephew struggle to enjoy a live match due to sensory sensitivities, Bern set out on a mission to create a welcoming environment for all fans, regardless of their needs. Thanks to her vision and partnership with Wooden Spoon, the new sensory room at Twickenham now offers a safe and supportive space for children and families who might otherwise find the matchday experience overwhelming.

The sensory room is a step forward in Wooden Spoon’s commitment to inclusion, ensuring that rugby truly is a game for everyone. The charity continues to make strides across the UK and Ireland, funding projects that transform lives, and their presence at Twickenham further showcased their dedication to making rugby accessible to all.