ILKLEY special needs charity LS29 has launched a new scheme to support families with disabled children during the Covid-19 crisis.

The charity has teamed up with Wharfedale District Scouts to provide the Curly Hill Campsite for individual family visits. The hostel has been fitted out with accessible play equipment, and LS29’s holiday club staff members and volunteers are on site to do a deep clean between each family.

LS29 trustee Tanya Young said: “LS29 families have struggled with lockdown for various reasons. Many of our young people with learning disabilities don’t understand the need for restrictions and social distancing, so exercising in public places can be stressful.

“Many of them also have conditions that make them medically vulnerable to Covid-19 so their families are trying to be extra cautious as well. We are hoping that Curly Hill will provide a safe space for our families to enjoy some time outdoors.”

The charity has received advice from Bradford Council’s Complex Health and Disability team in setting up the scheme. It has also been supported by Ilkley Coronavirus Response Group, who have provided volunteers and help with setting up the hostel, Ilkley Youth and Community Association who assisted with the move to Curly Hill, and Addingham Visor Army, who donated PPE for staff and volunteers.

LS29 chair Karen Goodman said: “Thank you very much to the council and the local groups who have supported us in setting this up for our families. It will be a great relief for them to have somewhere to take their young people to let off steam.

“We are grateful to the National Lottery Community Fund and lottery players, whose financial support for our holiday club makes projects like this possible.

“And we are also very grateful to the Scouts for sharing their beautiful site with us during this difficult time.”

Curly Hill Campsite is owned and operated by local charity Wharfedale District Scouts. It is normally busy at this time of year with campers from near and far, however it is currently closed due to Covid-19.

Jeremy Ince, Chair of the Curly Hill subcommittee, said: “It’s absolutely fantastic that we have been able to open the facility for LS29 in order that they can make the lockdown a little easier for families with disabled children.

“Facilities include indoor space for play, as well as extensive grounds which provide an enclosed area for families to exercise safely.”

For more information, please contact Jane Elliott on ls29time@gmail.com / 07949 566731.