A CHRISTMAS display in Auden Mead, Horfield, is raising money for Bristol Children’s Hospital and shining a light on people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
It’s been created by Kelly Mills, using her experience as a SEND parent. Instead of traditional brightly coloured lights, Kelly’s Arctic-themed show is just blue and white, to create calm and focus.
She said: “This has become a passion of mine. My son is SEND and I wanted to create something unique and special while also raising the importance of being SEND – for both the child and the families involved.
“My SEND display is inclusive to all and that is what is really important to me and my family. Most displays are hands off, however mine is not. Children can immerse themselves in the SEN den where there are calming lights inside. They can feel the display. It is built with sensory consideration at the core of it and is based on one theme so that children are not overwhelmed.”
Kelly is also keen to support the Shine Bright appeal for the hospital, where two of her children have ongoing treatment.
“My son has many health obstacles as well as learning disabilities,” she said. “The hospital has always been so kind to us. Without them I would not have known my son has a rare genetic disease.”
When people visit, Kelly likes to explain the display. Visitors are free to explore and enjoy the hide-and seek-games. This year, she had support from a Year 11 design student who helped create a SEND-based logo to promote the display and raise awareness.
On December 7, Santa will be visiting between 5-7pm. There will be a small charge of £5, including a small gift. All money raised from this, and the JustGiving page, will go towards the patient hotel the hospital wants to build for parents.
Christmas Dubs, a group that drives decorated VW vehicles in support of Shine Bright, is also due to visit.
Kelly said: “I have been very lucky that I have the support from the Shine Bright team as well as Christmas Dubs. I want to say thank you in advance to anyone who stops by the display and supports the appeal. It is very much appreciated. Your generosity will ensure that families can stay together and children can have access to the care they need.”
To donate, visit https://tinyurl.com/2jcdv22s