Lough Moss Leisure Centre to Host First BIG Inclusive Playday

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council is set to host its first BIG Inclusive Playday, offering a fun-filled day of activities for children and young people with additional needs. The free event will take place on Saturday 22 August, from 10am to 2pm, at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.

Designed to encourage wellbeing and inclusion, the event will give participants the opportunity to try new activities and enjoy a welcoming and supportive day out. Families are invited to come along and accompany their family member with additional needs.

The day will kick off with a fun dance session with Fitness Freddie and there will be a packed choice of inclusive sports and games throughout the day. Participants can take time out to relax and explore a sensory play bus with bubble lighting, musical instruments, ball pools and a range of interactive sensory experiences. Those with energy can showcase their best dance moves in a silent disco where each child can select their favourite sing-along hits through a set of wireless headphones, which will be provided.

The excitement will continue with a sensory walk along the trim trail, giving participants the chance to enjoy the fresh air while engaging with sensory activities along the way. Throughout the morning, there will be lots of opportunities to keep everyone entertained with face painting, balloon modelling and a special visit from Princess and Superhero characters. There will also be a special appearance from the council’s new mascot, Wallace the Lion who is sure to be a roaring hit with the crowd!

Those with green fingers can get hands-on in a fun planting and potting session at Lough Moss Community Garden, which is a great opportunity to learn a new interest and take something home. When it's time to recharge between activities, everyone can treat themselves to well-deserved break with ice cream and food vans.

Participants will have the chance to meet local sports clubs and organisations that are championing inclusive involvement across the council area. These groups will be showcasing a range of activities available throughout the year and providing information on how people can get involved.

Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Communities and Wellbeing Committee, said: "We are delighted to launch our first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre. This event is about bringing children, young people and adults together in a relaxed and supportive space where everyone can enjoy themselves at their own pace.

We want every participant to feel welcomed and able to take part in all activities, whether they are trying something new or simply spending a day with family and friends. It is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate inclusion, promote wellbeing and show that sport and community activities can be accessible for all."

The BIG Inclusive Play Day is a drop-in event, giving families and organisations the flexibility to come and go throughout the day while enjoying the wide range of activities on offer.

For further information, please email lyndsay.mcveigh@lisburncastlereagh.gov.uk

Photo Caption: Councillor Sharon Lowry, Chair of the Community and Wellbeing is joined by local children and Wallace the Lion to launch the first ever BIG Inclusive Playday at Lough Moss Leisure Centre.