Federal Member for Blair Shayne Neumann has joined Endeavour Foundation to unveil a therapeutic sensory room, funded in part by the Blair Stronger Communities Grant and New Hope Group, at the charity’s respite service in Yamanto.
Lilly Place - a five bed accommodation facility – now boasts a fully equipped ‘Snoezelen Room’ for people with a sensory processing disorder, disability or complex behaviour. The innovative therapeutic environment employs optical illusions, lighting effects, colours, textures and sounds to stimulate and, simultaneously, calm.
Shayne Neumann said he was pleased to see the positive result grant funding being delivered through the Blair Stronger Communities Programme is having in the local community.
“Endeavour Foundation was certainly a well deserving recipient of this funding grant, and it is an honour to be here today, along with representatives from New Hope Group, as we officially open the new therapy room here in Yamanto,” Mr Neumann said.
“These respite services are so important to many families across the Ipswich community, and really do make a positive difference in the lives of those accessing them.
“This is why I am always committed to ensuring where possible, we are able to assist in funding improvements to these services for locals.” Mr Neumann said.
Stewart Koplick, Education, Learning and Development Services Manager from Endeavour Foundation said that respite can be critical to the wellbeing of the family unit.
“Families caring for a child with a disability can face major changes to their social and economic position. That, in turn, can lead to distress for carers, deterioration of their own health, family breakdown and mental health issues.
“Through the addition of a multi-sensory environment, we hope that we can provide a space that will help to minimise disruptive behaviours, decrease anxiety and fear and improve communication among the children who access this service.
“This room is a truly wonderful space, including the likes of sensory flooring, LED lighting fibres, a balance ball, pressure seat and ball pit. The tactile equipment is designed to support skills development and assist with challenging behaviours, as well as just providing a fun space for all young people to enjoy.”
The Stronger Communities Program (SCP) enables Member of Parliament to provide funding for small capital projects which deliver social benefits by improving community participation, cohesion and contribute to the vibrancy and viability of local communities.
The New Hope Group Community Sponsorship and Donation Program (NHGCSDP) assists non-profit community groups and organisations to make a positive contribution to the quality of life of residents in the communities in which they operate.
New Hope Group Chief Financial Officer Matthew Busch said the company was honoured to support Endeavour Foundation in bringing such an important service to the Ipswich area.
“New Hope Group has been based in Ipswich since 1954 and supporting our local community is something we continue to be committed to.
“Lilly Place will provide much-needed, specialist support for a many number of Ipswich families and we are very thankful we can help bring this house to a reality,” he said.
