Social Impact
Y Nyth in Bryngarw Country Park was transformed into a magical Christmas grotto for children with disabilities and additional needs.
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As part of our commitment to supporting unpaid carers with respite opportunities, we held our third annual Relaxed Santa event at Bryngarw Country Park in December, where families with children with additional needs and disabilities could take part in a festive tradition that others may take for granted.
To ensure the event was as accessible as possible, the event was designed so that families had plenty of time to spend with Santa and Mrs Claus, take part festive crafts and games with the Kitsch n Sync Collective elves, and enjoy hot chocolate and mince pies. The event took place after Bryngarw Country Park had closed to the public.
The feedback received from parents has shown the importance of making Christmas accessible to all children:
"This has been our third visit and the event gets better and better every year. My children can’t get enough of the experience, and it is the only place where they can all enjoy it together. Santa is so chatty and kind, his helper Elves are very beautifully dressed up and all very funny. They make us feel so welcomed, entertained and connected to the Christmas spirit.”
“We love the location, it is easy to access especially for a child that uses a power wheelchair and the whole process from booking through to attending makes us feel there are people in this world who care how you feel and are working to improve your life, even if it is just for a couple of hours.”
“This event has helped us build important happy memories together. We feel relaxed after Christmas time, and we feel real gratitude for the things we receive. This is such a special event, every year we hope that you will continue the event again in the future.”
This year’s event was able to take place thanks to funding from Cwm Taf Short Break Funding for carers via the Regional Integrated Care Fund.
