Glasgow Airport donation helps to fund new play area

16 November 2012

A new play area for children with learning disabilities and complex healthcare needs has opened after Glasgow Airport’s community funding arm made a contribution to the cost.

Local families gathered at Action for Children Scotland’s Renfrewshire Short Breaks service in the village of Kilbarchan to celebrate the opening of the facility.

Renfrewshire Short Breaks offers respite care for disabled children, giving them the opportunity to learn and develop, have fun and gain independence; while their families have a break from their caring roles.

Throught its FlightPath Fund, Glasgow Airport is one of a number of business and individuals which helped the charity raise the £40,000 needed to transform the play area at the service, which supports 70 children from Renfrewshire.

James Cantley, operational director of children’s services at Action for Children Scotland, said: “The new play area at our Renfrewshire Short Breaks service has a wheelchair roundabout, basket swing and sensory games. It is an exciting and stimulating place for the children we support to spend time.

“I would like to thank everyone who made the creation of this play area possible. It will make a huge difference to the area and show Renfrewshire children how much fun outdoor shared play can be.”

Staff from Renfrewshire Short Breaks and families who use the service also helped to raise funds by holding a fun run and a fete; and taking part in various sponsored swims and marathon runs.

The play area was opened by Councillor Derek Bibby of Renfrewshire Council, who said: “I am delighted to open this new play area at Action for Children Scotland’s Renfrewshire Short Breaks service. I am sure it will be a popular addition to the area, helping local children to learn and develop whilst having fun.”