A TREAT for all the senses lies in store at Mahdlo Youth Zone after they officially unveiled their sensory room and new equipment thanks to help from a top software company.
Inclusive Technology Ltd, based in Delph, has donated new equipment for the room, including a voice responsive dome, sensory glow blocks, wireless headsets and a ‘bee-bot’ starter pack.
The room, which can be used by all young people at the centre, was opened last month with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and buffet provided by The Little Deerhill Catering Co.
Amy Taylor, Ability Coordinator at Mahdlo, said: “The new additions have improved the range of activities we can offer in the sensory room to be more fun and engaging.
“The Bee Bot is especially different to our usual activities and has enabled us to teach young people about problem solving and team work.
Also the sensory glow blocks and voice responsive dome are brilliant for people with sensory impairments or conditions.
“The ‘My Time room’ is a very popular part of our offer throughout all sessions and with this equipment we are able to create an inclusive and fun environment for all to enjoy.”
“We would like to thank Inclusive Technology for their donation.”
Martin Littler, CEO of Inclusive Technology, visited the centre to meet some of the parents and young people.
The company is a leading supplier of software and hardware for people with special needs and this year won a prestigious Queen’s Award for Innovation.
Mr Littler said: “Oldham also shines with the brilliant Mahdlo Youth Zone. It is a fantastic facility and it really believes in, and practises, inclusion.
“This is why we were happy to kit out their sensory room– and we want to do more once the first lot has bedded in.
“Oldham has been good for us and we are always happy to give something back to the borough.”
He added: “Our involvement in Assistive Technology in Oldham goes back to 1988. We have always had great support both as SEMERC which organised the National ‘Micros for Special Needs Exhibition’ in Oldham’s Queen Elizabeth Hall for seven years to Inclusive Technology which has operated from Delph for 21 years.
“Oldham has had a national lead in Assistive Technology since the mid-80s and now has a world lead in resources for children with complex learning difficulties and disabilities.”
Find out more about Mahdlo Youth Zone on their website: www.mahdloyz.org
Find out more about Inclusive Technology Ltd on their website: www.inclusive.co.uk