After-school and holiday club benefits from extra storage

Storage is no longer an issue for the Hollow Lane Club following a grant from the Exeter Chiefs Foundation.

The Hollow Lane Club is a charity that provides high quality care and experiences through after-school and holiday clubs to 150 children and young people living with severe complex needs in the Exeter area.

Debra Ward, administrator of The Hollow Lane Club, said: “For parents and carers, Hollow Lane Club provides vital respite. Knowing their child is in a safe, supportive environment with high levels of trained staff, allows families to recharge, spend time with siblings, or manage work commitments. This reduces stress and helps sustain family wellbeing.”

The charity contacted the Foundation when they needed help purchasing a storage container for play equipment and paperwork.

Mrs Ward added: “Now that we are lucky enough to have our own dedicated storage container, we are hoping to source and secure more funding to purchase trikes and bikes. These are always hugely popular when our children have the chance to try them in other settings, giving them the opportunity to enjoy cycling in a safe, supportive environment. This will promote new skills, physical activity, independence, and fun. It also provides additional physio which many of our young people need.

“The project will also provide storage for additional play resources including a karaoke system, bingo machine, and board games. These activities will help children build confidence, improve communication, and enjoy inclusive group play with their peers. Together, the equipment will open up new ways for children with complex learning disabilities in Exeter to play, connect, and thrive.