More than 1,000 people celebrated inclusion at Children’s Disability Network Family Fun Day in Sligo

More than 1,000 people came together for a hugely successful Children’s Disability Network Team (CDNT) Family Fun Day, celebrating children, young people and families from across Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal.

The event, held in August at Knocknarea Arena, brought together more than 80 families for a day of fun, inclusion and community, with a wide range of activities designed to ensure that children and young people of all abilities could participate and enjoy the day.

Organised by the HSE Children’s Disability Network Team, the Family Fun Day provided families with opportunities to create, explore and play, with activities including accessible sports and games, accessible bikes and trikes, art workshops, sing-along sessions, dancing, a pet farm and a dedicated sensory room.

There was also plenty of excitement from some special guests, including Sligo Fire Service and a fire truck, An Garda Síochána and Sligo Rovers mascot Benny.

The event received exceptionally positive feedback from families who attended, with many highlighting the inclusive and carefully planned nature of the day.

Amy Conroy, Parent commented, “Everything was so well thought out, especially in relation to the sensory needs of the kids. Jack, my son managed his first bicycle ride because of the specialised equipment provided. I cannot express how wonderful it was to see everyone enjoying themselves and I’m so grateful for the care and consideration the team put into this day. What a wonderful job you all did. Thank you to all the team at the CDNT for a magical Family Fun Day. Please run this event again!”

The pet farm proved to be a particular highlight for some families, with one attendee simply describing the animals as the “highlight” of the day.

Mary Durcan, HSE Children's Disability Network Team Manager, Sligo South Donegal Community Healthcare Area, said, “We wanted to create a memorable Family Fun Day for the children and families supported by the service.

The Family Fun Day provided an inclusive welcoming and enjoyable experience for all families accessing the Children Disability Network Team Sligo South Donegal. The day offered a variety of fun and accessible activities tailored to meet the different needs and abilities of the Children, allowing them to participate, socialise and enjoy themselves in a safe supportive environment.

“With the sun shining, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Families had the opportunity to spend quality time together, connect with other families and engage with HSE Staff in a relaxed setting. The event was very well received, with positive feedback from Families highlighting the friendly atmosphere, range of activities and sense of inclusion throughout the day. Overall, the Family Fun Day was a great success and demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for Children with disabilities and their families to come together, have fun and feel valued within their community.

“We would like to thank all of the families who attended, the staff and volunteers involved in planning and delivering the event, and all of the organisations and community partners who helped make the day such a success.”