A heartfelt thank you to Guernsey Swim All Seasons Group

Autism Guernsey has received a generous donation from Guernsey Swim All Seasons, which will be used to enhance our sensory therapy provision for autistic children and adults across the island.

The donation has funded the purchase of specialist sensory equipment for Autism Guernsey’s sensory therapy room, which is accessed by both child and adult clients. The new equipment will support individuals who experience sensory processing difficulties, helping them to better regulate sensory input and improve day-to-day functioning.

Maryke Hauptfleisch, Autism Guernsey’s Occupational Therapist, said:“The donation has helped us extend the experience we can offer and has enabled us to purchase several new items of equipment, including a crash pit, weighted building blocks and a crash/ball pit. Our service is in high demand and we can sometimes only see clients for a short time. If we can share practical skills that they can take home and repeat frequently, we are making a real difference and improving lives. This means our service is being multiplied and can also benefit a client’s wider support network.”

She continued: “Research shows that the majority of autistic individuals experience difficulties with sensory integration, how the brain processes and responds to information from the senses. These challenges can significantly impact daily life, learning and overall wellbeing. With appropriate therapeutic support and equipment, many individuals can be supported to manage sensory input more effectively, helping everyday life to become easier.”

Guernsey Swim All Seasons is a community, year-round swimming group that welcomes all islanders to join. Through their activities, they raise money for local charitable causes.

Heidi Le Marquand and Debbie Robinson attended the presentation at Autism Guernsey and tried out some of the equipment. They said:“Swim All Seasons likes to contribute to the local community and make a difference where it can. Funds are raised through cake sales at swims and through our annual raffle.”