Glen Innes Severn Council Mayor Steve Toms, left, and Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall as last week’s official opening.
Monday, 6 March 2017
GLEN Innes’ Children and Family Services has started the New Year with a major extension to their ‘Pool House’ facilities for developmentally delayed youngsters.
New expanded facilities have come about through a three-way contribution from local and state governments, as well as community donations.
The extension caters to children with developmental delays and disabilities through easier access and therapeutic facilities. A purpose built toilet and shower will help children with a physical disability make the most of the service.
Member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, who opened the extensions with Mayor Steve Toms last week, says the new facility will offer valuable options for parents of kids with a disability.
“The Pool House has been an essential part of the Glen Innes community since it was established in 2003,” Mr Marshall said.
“As well as the essential after school and vacation care services, the Pool House also provides early intervention for kids with a learning disability – as well as giving parents some valuable breathing space.
“Now, these new facilities will help them look after a total of 30 kids, as well as catering for kids with greater physical or mental challenges.”
Glen Innes Severn Council had allocated $150,000 out of their 2015-16 Operational Plan – but that amount fell short after project delays. The NSW Government then provided $30,000 to move the project forward out of the Department of Education Before And After School Care Funding Grant.
In addition, the Glen Innes Quota Club provided $3,000 for a nest swing for kids on the autism spectrum.
Glen Innes Severn Mayor Steve Toms says the new facilities will be a boost for the community.
“There’s a healthy number of places filled for after school and vacation positions, which is of great benefit for the community. Additionally, the work that quota did to produce the nest swing is great,” Cr Toms said.
“It caters for all kids, but it means that disables kids are catered for as well.”