When Holly joined Allsorts with her three children – 8-year-old Aubrey and 5-year-old twins Asger and Tiggi – she was searching for a space where her family could have fun together.
Life as a busy household is always demanding but for Holly, navigating the challenges of Asger’s cerebral palsy added another layer of complexity.
“It can feel lonely and isolating when you’re a parent with a child with additional needs,” Holly shares. “There’s many things that you can’t do because they’re not accessible or safe. Allsorts is the exact opposite – it’s inclusive, safe and a lovely space.”
Allsorts became a part of Holly’s family life three years ago, starting with toddler sessions and evolving into a vital support network. Whether it’s crafting, walks, or even boat trips, Holly and her children have embraced a world of activities made possible through Allsorts.
“Allsorts is such an important, vital service,” Holly explains. “We rely on it heavily, especially in the holidays. There’s no judgement as well, which is very important and means a lot to us and other families with additional needs.”
“Allsorts is such an important, vital service”
For Asger, who thrives in sensory-friendly environments, the inclusive design of Allsorts activities makes all the difference. From quiet sensory areas to spaces where children can be loud and boisterous, Allsorts provides options for every child’s unique needs.
“The kids love Allsorts. Toys that one of my child needs to enjoy, are different to another child. It’s nice that we can come and swap things around and that Allsorts are so flexible with it.
“The play sessions were great for my children, because I could chat to other parents and support staff, with an incredible variety of toys and a safe space for the children – a safe space for me to talk about things and a safe place for the children to play.”
Alongside the activities and resources, Allsorts has given something she didn’t know she needed – a community.
“The staff have been great at listening and supporting – it’s invaluable,” says Holly.
“As a parent/carer I’ve been to lots of the recent workshops and learned loads. In a world where you’re muddling yourself through this experience, having a community behind you makes a big difference.”
Help us Create More Stories Like Holly and Asger’s
This Christmas, Allsorts needs your help to fill the shelves of our Toy Library with specialist toys and sensory equipment. Together we can ensure families like Holly’s have access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Your donation can make a difference:
- £15 could buy a sensory toy
- £50 could fund a weighted blanket for comfort and calm
- £200 would keep the Toy Library running for a day