Friday 13th December, Personal Progress

Calling all children and young people with additional needs, come and join us this summer. We have various activities taking place, Moovit workshops, Horrible History themed sessions and transition days funded by Essex Short Breaks. Its going to a fantastic summer. Book your place!☀️ ... See more

PLEASE SEE OUR REVIEW FROM ACTIVE ESSEX ALL TOGETHER CAMPAIGN BELOW or click on the following link https://dystoniaprincess.wixsite.com/timetoheal/blog/cococare-disability-provision

CoCoCare Provide an impressive Disability Provision Programme for Young People

As a disability sports ambassador for my local council I am always on the look out for new, innovative programmes as well as those that are established and in need for more recognition and promotion. There is a significant amount of evidence that participation in sports and / or physical activity has a beneficial effect on the participant. In CoCoCare I found this! I was initially drawn to the company by the dance that was offered but this is a company that is so much more than that and definitely needs shouting about. They aim to provide lifelong learning through the vocational opportunities and workshops they deliver to develop life skills and build confidence.They provide supported activities with small groups to adult ratio’s.

So I got in touch and went for a visit. The second I walked into the coco care venue I could tell I was in for a good morning! I was hit by the huge light space, colourful displays, music, laughter, smiles and positivity. Around the room some participants were focused on their dancing, whilst others took down displays, tided costume boxes and watched the dance.

I was greeted by Helen who was working with a group ahead of their forthcoming dance performance. Great interventions were being utilised, the atmosphere was one of happiness and joy. Everyone smiling and happy. She interacted brilliantly with the participants, with them being involved and engaged with the choreography. All had their solo moment to enjoy which was great to see.

One participant had initially be involved in the dance but had removed herself, but kept busy taking down some colourful picture displays whilst calling out dance tips across the hall. This was clearly accepted and great to see her involved and her views accepted by her peers.

The students dancing were not only enjoying themselves but learning life skills by the way staff and volunteers talked to and interacted with them. With links to different era’s of dance and questions asked a lot of transferable life and educational skills were being taught as well as the dance itself. This is taught alongside other performing arts sessions.

The centre itself was much larger than I expected it to be and the amount of provision exceptional. The tour unveiled spaces for computer work, relaxation in a new sensory room and a quiet zone for meetings and a room with sofas for parents to relax whilst their children enjoy their activities.

It was clear that this would be an amazing place to come and a real comfort for family and friends that these students with disabilities, both learning and / or physical disabilities were well looked after, supported and gaining key skills.

During the break I had the pleasure of talking with some of the participants and Helen herself. The breadth of delivery is amazing as is the organisation. A strong structure and high quality delivery. Its clear by the endless photos of participants with big smiles on their faces that this is a company loved by those who attend.

Although dance is what brought me to CoCoCare, they offer so much more. Clearly we are focused on sport and exercise as disability sports ambassadors. I was surprised to see that sport itself is also being delivered and an area that they are looking to expand in order to involve schools in classes and potential tournaments with schools.

One fantastic initiative are the horrible history workshops. These are 6 themed workshops for 14-18 year olds. Topics include ‘Strange sports of history’ and ‘Dreadful Dances and mad music’. This is a holiday activity but term time dance classes run on Tuesdays for 9-13 year olds and 14-18 year olds. The older participants enjoy the varied daily activities.

Shocked by what is being offered whilst the standard of delivery remains high throughout is a must for anyone in the Colchester area to tap into. With so much to offer this company hit so many targets its incredible. The day itself is well structured with time to socialise, eat together and enjoy healthy snacks that are provided. Doors open at 9.00 with participants encouraged to catch up with their peers before beginning their activity at around about 10am. The day concludes at 4pm.

So why not get in touch and give your child the opportunity to try whatever activities they like the look of. One thing for certain is they will be welcomed with open arms, be well supported and encouraged to enjoy themselves on their own level, even if they just want to watch in the beginning. The staff will ensure they are still involved, gain their trust and huge benefits will follow. These activities can really help your child to excel and develop their skills.

Look out for details of future opportunities on this site. There is also a Coco care open week running from the 24th-30th October 2018 that would be well worth a visit.

Contact can be made through the CoCo Care website http://www.cococare.co.uk phone on 01206 912 021 or email Beth at beth@cococare.co.uk ... See more

Vocational Day Service for Adults with Learning Disabilities