Darlington Mum Determined to Create SEND Friendly Soft Play Centre
Kelly Knight aims to establish ‘Kane’s World’, a soft play centre for SEND children in Darlington, addressing a vital community need.
Darlington, SEND, Kane’s World, Soft Play, Sensory Centre, Community
Darlington: Kelly Knight, a 45-year-old mum of four, is on a mission. She wants to create ‘Kane’s World’, a special soft play and sensory centre for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Her youngest son, five-year-old Kane, has global developmental delay and is on the autism pathway. His needs inspired Kelly to start this project.
Kelly knows how hard it is to find accessible play spaces. She wants to change that for families like hers.
“Where do we fit in?” she asks. “Kane can’t speak for himself, so I have to fight for him.”
She believes every child deserves a place to play safely and have fun. Kelly is determined to inspire others to advocate for more inclusive spaces.
Currently, there are limited options, like the Dolphin Centre, which offers just one hour of SEND play each month. Kelly thinks that’s not enough.
“This isn’t just about my child,” she says. “Many families struggle to find accessible play options.”
Recognizing this gap, Kelly is taking action. Kane’s World will be a dedicated play centre for SEND children and their families.
It will be a welcoming space where kids can be themselves without judgment. They can take off their shoes, climb, jump, or stim freely.
Parents will also have a chance to relax, knowing they’re in a supportive environment.
The nearest sensory play area is 15 miles away and can only accommodate 14 people, including adults.
Kelly has launched a fundraising campaign and is reaching out to local businesses and charities for support.
In just a week, her Crowdfunder has raised nearly £1,000. A recent survey showed over 360 families agree that Darlington needs a facility like Kane’s World.
Kelly hopes to set up the centre in an industrial estate, aiming for over 3,000 square feet of space.
She’s also a devoted mother to three other children: seven-year-old Evelyn, 19-year-old Madeline, who has ADHD, and 23-year-old Lydia.
With her strong commitment, Kelly wants to ensure children like Kane have a place to play and grow. You can support her Crowdfunder.
Councillor Jonathan Dulston praised the project, saying it’s clear the community needs this facility. He encourages everyone to support Kelly’s efforts.