Cllr Hannah Cooper is celebrating the installation of a new communication board in Gheluvelt Park, a significant step towards making the park’s play area more inclusive for children with special needs and disabilities.
Cllr Cooper first raised the need for this vital resource at her second ever council meeting in 2023, demonstrating her commitment to making Worcester’s public spaces accessible to all. The communication board, strategically placed low down in the play area, is designed to be easily accessible to young children, enabling them to express themselves and participate more fully in play.
“I am absolutely delighted to see this communication board installed,” said Cllr Cooper. “It’s a small addition, but it will make a huge difference to children and adults who rely on visual communication. I’m committed to working towards making all of our playgrounds more inclusive.”
Fellow Arboretum ward councillor, Karen Lewing, echoed Cllr Cooper’s sentiments, stating, “The communication board will help so many families. It’s wonderful to see this initiative come to fruition, and I’m proud to support efforts that make our community more inclusive.”
The communication board features a range of symbols and images that children can use to express their needs and desires, fostering greater understanding and communication in the play environment.