An appeal for financial support during 2023 has resulted in a new sensory room at We Are Beams.

The disabled children staying overnight for respite care at the Beams Dragon’s Retreat and the children attending the day care centre, can now enjoy the benefits of learning at their own pace and developing skills without any pressure.

They can express themselves in a gentle way with lights and touch sensations and this helps them to manage their own emotions. It is also an effective tool for managing difficult behaviour for children with Autism and ADHD.

Children on the spectrum may be hyper-sensitive to harsh lighting, strong odours, loud music and crowds of people. This is a safe environment where they can calm down and regain emotional control. It is also an essential tool for children and young people with Downs Syndrome, cerebral palsy, tic disorders, high anxiety and depression. Research has proved that the sensory room with have a positive effect on their mental health and wellbeing.

Katrina Adams, Head of charity said “We were delighted with the support we received from the public and businesses and were able to update our sensory room and experience at Beams. It’s in high demand”

Local schools with SEN children often visit Beams and are able to also enjoy the sensory experience.
The room is now fully equipped with colour and light columns, interactive wall carpet plus an amazing projector which was funded by the National Lottery Award for All.

The projector is equipped with over 300 different programmes with fully interactive games and activities such as exploring the ocean or squashing tomatoes to make a pizza.

The children are able to engage with the projected activities through touch, making their playtime truly immersive whilst improving motor skills and co-ordination. The projectors height can be adjusted to the floor or on a tabletop allowing inclusivity for all the children and young people.

Beams would like to thanks the Big Lottery, FLR Spectron, Principal Asset Management, Percy Bilton Charity, KCC members, Caretech Foundation, Wards Foundation, M3 Consulting, Sevenoaks District Council, Golding Homes, West Kent Freemasons, Anglian Group and the Charles Lewis Foundations as well as many donors in the community for making this happen for our children.

Take a look at the short film below showing the children exploring our new sensory room.