New Inclusive Play Space Opens at Russell House in Yorkshire
YorkshireA once underused room at Russell House has been completely transformed into a vibrant soft play area where children of all abilities can play, explore and have fun in a safe, accessible environment.
For many of the children supported at Russell House, public play areas aren’t an option, meaning they often miss out on the opportunity to play independently. Thanks to the addition of specialist equipment such as hoists and other accessible features, this new play space provides a safe and inclusive environment designed specifically with their needs in mind.
This exciting new facility was made possible through the generous support of Wooden Spoon, the children’s charity of rugby.
To mark the official opening in January 2024, Jason Robinson OBE — star of both rugby league and rugby union — cut the ribbon on the new soft play area. Jason, who famously scored England’s only try in the 2003 Rugby Union World Cup final, said:
“It’s a huge honour to be opening this space. I’m a local lad and felt it was really important to support in this way. Just to see the kids now enjoying the soft play area is fantastic. Anything that can be done to make life and experiences better for the children and families is certainly to be commended.”
Stuart Watson, Chair of Wooden Spoon’s West Yorkshire branch, added:
“At Wooden Spoon, the whole objective of our fundraising is to support children who need our help and put fun into their lives. This project does exactly that, and I’m absolutely delighted to see it come to life. It really warms my heart.”
