Help build a sensory room for Percy

A Brighton woman is hoping to raise enough money to build a sensory room to help a disabled boy take control of his surroundings.

When Lacy Johnson joined Hamilton Lodge deaf school last September, she was given the care of another new member of the school’s community, Percy, who moved here when his old school in Margate closed down.

Percy, who has cerebal palsy, was then withdrawn and it took weeks for Lacy to draw him out. But although they’ve made huge progress and many specialist adaptions, a sensory room would significantly improve Percy’s relaxation time after school. So Lacy is now raising money to build a sensory room.

Lacy said: “When Percy arrived, he just sat in a chair and didn’t ever react to people coming into the room. We were both brand new to the school – he was in a wheelchair and didn’t interact with anybody, not even the teachers.

“Now, he doesn’t get in the wheelchair, he loves to walk and he’s aware of lots that’s going on around him.

“Bright sunlight can make him feel anxious, so on a sunny day, our playground isn’t ideal. He does, however, get great enjoyment from switching lights on and off, and can often be found switching the lights around the school!

“A sensory room would give him the chance to have control of his surroundings, from the colour and brightness of the lights to the calming aromas that can fill the room.

“Fitted in a space with soft furnishings and tactile resources, a sensory room would give him the chance to play and relax safely. He had use of a sensory room at a previous school, where we are told that he would love to relax and listen to music.”

Emma Daniel, the school’s fundraising manager, said: “It’s not a luxury or an extra that would be nice to have, it’s something which give him the same quality of life as other children.”

As part of her efforts to raise up to £15,000 for a full sensory room, Lacy is taking part in a 5k obstacle race in July. To sponsor her, click here.