Leisure at Cheltenham is proud to announce the launch of brand-new inflatable soft play sessions for children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), starting Wednesday 6 August 2025.

Thanks to a generous donation of £3,527.86 from The Pied Piper Appeal, this exciting new offering includes a giant inflatable igloo dome, LED sensory lighting, interactive floor tiles, and soft sensory furnishings – all carefully designed to support and engage children with additional needs.

The sessions will be calmer, reduced-capacity experiences for children under eight, allowing them to explore, play, and relax with the support of a parent or guardian. The inflatable igloo creates a safe and immersive sensory environment that encourages learning through discovery and interaction.

“Pied Piper is proud to fund this vital sensory dome and specialist equipment, giving SEND children in Gloucestershire a space of their own to play, learn, and thrive at Leisure at Cheltenham,” said Julie Kent MBE, Trustee, The Pied Piper Appeal.

The Pied Piper Appeal continues its mission to improve the lives of sick and disabled children across Gloucestershire. With this new initiative, they’ve helped Leisure at Cheltenham take another step toward creating inclusive, accessible experiences for all families.

“On behalf of The Cheltenham Trust, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to The Pied Piper Appeal for their incredibly generous donation,” said James Baker, Interim CEO, The Cheltenham Trust. “This gift will make a significant and lasting difference to the children and families we support, helping us to create more inclusive and accessible experiences across our venues. We are truly grateful for the Pied Piper Appeal’s continued commitment to improving the lives of children and young people with additional needs.”

This initiative is part of The Cheltenham Trust’s ongoing commitment to inclusivity – ensuring all children, regardless of ability, can access enriching, joyful experiences in our community. Sessions are every Wednesday (from 6 August), 10am to 11.30am, for children aged 8 an under.