An update for parents/ carers - March 2025
Dear parent/carer
Subject: Thank you for your contributions to Red Gables - next steps
Dear Parents/Carers,
As you will be aware our planning application to convert Red Gables into a new overnight short break and day care home for children, young people, and families with SEND needs has been approved. We are now moving forward with the next steps, including approaching contractors and making decisions on the equipment, facilities, and overall look of the property.
We recently held a meeting with volunteer parents and carers alongside our project team from areas including social care, occupational therapy and planning. The group gave us feedback on what they would like to see in the property and what they would like us to consider and would like to extend our heartfelt thanks for their invaluable contributions and support throughout this process.
Our team also met with young people from our STARS youth group to find out what they wanted to see at the home. The feedback has been instrumental in shaping our plans and ensuring that Red Gables will be the best it can be for our young people and in offering reassurance to families.
We wanted to update you on a couple of points raised at the meeting and with the young people:
- You said: The sensory room should have a variety of textures and calming lights that can be tailored to the needs of the young person.
We did: Our Technology Enabled Care team showcased some options including a galaxy projector, interactive light wall and interactive projectors. We have also included adjustable lighting options in the sensory room design.
- You said: It would be helpful to discuss adjustments to support children and young people with visual impairments.
We did: We have collaborated with the impairment team and received a checklist to integrate into the property. This will help support individuals with visual impairments by incorporating adjustments like accessible signage and adjustable lighting.
- You said: The garden space should include a play area.
We did: We have budgeted for accessible play equipment and added in elements such as raised flower beds and a vegetable bed, which the children and young people can care for.
- You said: Consideration should be given to break out areas to support those needing some space.
We did: Each young person will have their own bedroom and the sensory room will be available to all young people. The occupational therapy team are also looking into options including detachable safe beds for each room.
- You said: Children and young people need to feel they are able to do things on their own around the house.
We did: Each young person will have their own bedroom which they will be able to personalise through adjustable lighting and using tech such as projectors. They will also have their own space to store clothing etc. Consideration will be taken to additional technology that will support independence for example using voice activated lighting switches or automated blind openers.
Our colleagues within Sunderland Adult Care and Sunderland Care and Support (SCAS) have invited parents and carers to visit our SMART house - a house at the Leechmere Centre which uses assisted technology to support people with disabilities and long term health conditions to live independently. If you would be keen to join a short tour of the SMART house, please email shortbreaks@togetherforchildren.org.uk by Thursday 13th March 2025.
We are excited to continue working alongside you to make Red Gables a nurturing and supportive environment for our children and young people. If you would like to provide any further comments about the home or have any questions please do email us at shortbreaks@togetherforchildren.org.uk.
Thank you once again for your contributions and support.
Many thanks,
Simon Marshall
Chief Executive
Together for Children
