On Wednesday 20th May, Julia Wright, Head of Business Development at the Youth Zone, invited The Chairman and several East Ribble District Officers to attend a formal opening of the recently completed Sensory Room. The work was greatly assisted by a grant of £4,995 made from the ” East Lancashire Masonic Charity ” community fund towards the end of last year.
The new facility is equipped with a range of equipment to stimulate the senses of the young people with a range of learning difficulties, and includes specialist lighting, sound systems and a range of touch and interactive devices. The room now provides the users and their families with a safe and practical hands on space and compliments the extensive range of existing facilities at the Youth Zone.
Blackburn Youth Zone is located in the heart of the new Cathedral Quarter in Blackburn. It is a superb 365 day a year facility that caters for 2,400 boys, girls and young people up to the age of 18. It has been open now for three years.
The Sensory Room is a special project of Laura Walker, the Diversity Club Manager, and it was a pleasure to see her cut the ribbon to open the new room. She was supported by other members of staff, including Julia, Vicky Profit (Events Manager), Sharon Anson (Administration Manager) and Sarah Johns (Head of Finance and Support Services).
From the District we had David Lightbown (Chairman), Dave McGurty (Deputy Chairman), Sid Jenkinson (Communications Officer), Steve Crowther (Assistant Communications Officer) and Ian Johnson (Assistant Charity Steward).
L – Julia Wright, Head of Business Development | R – Laura Walker, Diversity Club Manchester
L – David Lightbown, Laura & Ian Johnson | R – Vicky Profit, Sharon Anson & Sarah Johns
L – District Chairman, David Lightbown, cutting the ribbon | R – Just a few of the features in the room
