Godalming boy's 'joy' at inclusive play area swing

Eve, from Godalming, has spoken of her son Nino's "joy" at a new inclusive swing

A Surrey mum has described her family's "joy" at her son getting an accessible swing in their local playground.

Eve, from Godalming, asked the council to install the equipment at Phillips Memorial Park play area after her son Nino, who is five years old, outgrew his favourite swing.

She told BBC Surrey: "He's so happy when he's in it and that gives us as parents so much joy to see that."

Waverley Borough Council (WBC) has said it now plans to install more inclusive swings in playgrounds throughout the borough.

When Nino got too tall for the playground's swings, his mum wrote to the council to raise awareness that equipment designed for disabled children should be made available.

Eve said: "It's so much more than a swing for us. It makes a real difference to Nino."

The family were surprised when, within a month, WBC installed the specialist swing.

Nino has a rare neurologic disorder called ATP1A3 syndrome which affects his mobility and means he is non-verbal.

Plans to expand

Eve said Nino loves "the feeling of being free because he's unable to walk. So to be able to be flung backwards and forwards in a swing is such a joy for him."

The ergonomic chair swing is designed for children with disabilities so it is supportive and has a flat back.

Only one in 10 UK playgrounds are inclusive to disabled children, according to research from Scope.

The inclusive equipment has already been put in place in Wentworth Close play area in Farnham and Lashmere play area in Cranleigh.

Three further play areas are being refurbished.

Steve Williams, a councillor for WBC, said: “It is so important that we provide play areas that cater for all children.”