Sensory Santa: Reaching every child this Christmas

Aim: Our Sensory Santa project aims to provide a magical, fully accessible Santa Grotto experience for children with profound multiple disability

Our Story -  Creating a Sensory Santa Grotto for Children with Profound Disabilities

From our sensory centre in Hoylake - Wirral, we work with children and young adults who have profound multiple disabilities (PMLD). These incredible individuals face challenges that go beyond what most of us can imagine—they may be unable to walk, talk, play with toys, or even eat without assistance. Often battling life limiting conditions, medical interventions that are invasive, painful and scary including epilepsy and other medical needs. Despite these challenges, they deserve to experience the same joy and wonder that other children take for granted. But for many, typical holiday experiences like visiting Santa are simply not accessible.

That’s where our idea for the Sensory Santa Grotto was born. We want to create an inclusive, fully accessible grotto experience where children with disabilities can meet Santa in an environment that caters to their needs. This means a space with wheelchair access, changing/toilet facilities, sensory lighting, calm atmospheres, and specially trained staff to ensure every child has a magical experience. Instead of traditional gifts that may not suit their abilities, each child will receive a personalized sensory gift, tailored to their specific needs and preferences.

Our Vision: Every Child Deserves Christmas Magic

Our vision is simple: No child should be excluded from the magic of Christmas. We want to provide an experience that brings joy and inclusion to children who otherwise miss out. Families shouldn’t have to drive hours to find accessible facilities or worry that their child won’t be able to participate. Our sensory grotto will be a place where every child can belong, feel comfortable, and enjoy the magic of Santa in a way that works for them.

With your support, we aim to fund:

1. A fully accessible Sensory Santa Grotto with wheelchair access, sensory-friendly lights, and changing facilities.

2. Sensory gifts for each child, tailored to their needs, ensuring a meaningful and joyful experience.

3. Five family day experiences in 2025, providing days out for children and young adults with PMLD, creating memories beyond the grotto.

4. Support for caregivers, including giving them a well-deserved break by funding special experiences just for them.

How We’ll Use the Money

The money raised will go directly into making this vision a reality:

• £5,000 will fund the creation and staffing of the Sensory Santa Grotto, covering everything from accessible facilities to decorations.

• £3,000 will go towards creating bespoke sensory gifts for each child who visits Santa.

• £2,000 will support the family day experiences in 2025, helping us offer these special families unforgettable outings they can enjoy together.

• Any additional funds will go towards maintaining and expanding our sensory centre, ensuring that children with disabilities continue to have access to experiences tailored to their needs throughout the year - 2025 we are planning to raise for a soft play sensory room! 

Testimonials from Our Families

“Last year, we couldn’t take our daughter to see Santa because no grotto had the facilities she needed. The idea that a sensory grotto is coming locally means the world to us!” – Sarah, Parent of a Child with PMLD

“Our son lights up in sensory environments, but we rarely find places he can truly enjoy. This sensory Santa experience sounds like a dream come true.” – Michael, Father of a Non-Verbal Child

With your help, we can make this dream a reality for families who need it most. Every donation brings us closer to building a space where every child, no matter their abilities, can experience the magic of Christmas. Thank you for your generosity and support!