Over the summer, our site in Merthyr (Plant Hapus) has introduced a brand-new All-Inclusive Holiday Club, tailoring for the needs of all children, creating a space of inclusion and belonging. We met some incredible, ground breaking children over the 6-week period who all taught us something new about the world, in their own unique way. We followed a child-led approach, giving the children a voice and the opportunity to make informed choices about their environment. We developed skills around independence, personal care and wellbeing and helped to build strong relationships between staff, children and extended families.
Staff testimonials
“Working at Holiday Club has taught me so much about myself that I didn’t know. It has shown me that there is nothing that is impossible and has helped me grow in confidence! I have everything crossed that I am able to come back to this setting again” – RB
“I am extremely grateful to Cymryd Rhan for giving me the opportunity to lead on this amazing provision. The summer has been amazing and I truly believe that we have proven that the children in our care have no limits and they are able to achieve anything they aspire to in life! We have developed relationships with every child, parent and professional who walked through the gates of our setting and I am beyond proud of everything we have achieved!”.
Words used by staff:
- Before holiday club – unsure, anxious, worried, out of comfort zone, apprehensive, nervous
- After holiday club – Sense of relief, inviting, at home, achievement, proud, relaxed, confident
Parent testimonials
- “staff were so lovely and welcoming. It’s a fantastic setting. There were a number of challenges with my son hitting out but they worked with him all the way through and allowed him to still attend.”
- “thank you so much for sharing the photos of K with me. He looks so happy!”
- “I can’t believe how happy L is coming home. Thank you so much for everything”
Professional testimonials
- ALN Lead officer, MTCBC – “I feel really privileged to have met the children and witnessed their enjoyment first hand. The efforts Chloe and her team have made to get this provision off the ground are amazing!”
- Social worker, MTCBC – “I think to have this service as another option for our families is amazing, especially if they offer full days or even half days as this is something we are lacking in ways of provision for under 12’s”
- Manager, Disability Social Worker Team – “the service Chloe and her team have provided throughout the summer has been incredible. You have supported some of the more complex children open to CWD who ordinarily would not have had anything through the holidays. The support provided has reduced stress, pressures, allowed for respite opportunities and potentially prevented family breakdown. We would love to keep this provision going.”