As a physiotherapist, Stephanie Wheen (founder of Gympanzees) realised that community spaces for children’s play were not set up to be inclusive to those with disabilities. From access, to equipment, to toilets, to staff training, children who needed exercise and development the most were least able to access it safely and comfortably.
And it wasn’t just those with physical disabilities. This also included children with learning disabilities and neurodivergent children, including autistic children, and children with ADHD.
Since the requirements of these children vary so massively, Steph decided there was a need for a dedicated centre for disabled children, including spaces for non-disabled friends and families to join them in their play.
After 10 years of work and dedication, Gympanzees hope the site will be open in early 2027. The centre is based just outside of Bristol, where there will be a world-class gym, soft play centre, climbing wall, trampolines, all with the specialised equipment to allow any child or young person to access every activity.
World-class equipment
Steph recalls the first time she worked with families to introduce their children to walking simulation equipment.
“There were tears of joy, from the parents, but also the children who were feeling the sensation of walking for the first time. One of our children was able to explain he felt better than he’d ever felt before.”
However, equipment like this is incredibly expensive, and not accessible for most people, meaning it’s incredibly difficult for children with disabilities to exercise, which can be crucial for their overall health and development.
Life changing spaces
Spaces such as those created by Gympanzees provide children not just with physical and health benefits. They can have a monumental impact on wellbeing, joy and give experiences that children couldn’t get elsewhere. Steph describes what it was like for one visitor to get on a trampoline for the first time:
“He started giggling for the first time, out loud... it was absolutely incredible.”
Funding the site
A Triodos Bank UK loan helped fund the purchase of the £3.1 million site, alongside £1 million in donations from individuals and trusts.
“We took the loan request to several high street banks. All the others wouldn't look at us, but because Triodos has such a focus on impact, they could see what we were trying to do, and they were so supportive throughout the whole process.”
The ultimate goal for Steph is to open another 12 centres across the UK, so that every child is within an hour of accessing a site – because every disabled child and young person should have the opportunity to exercise, play and connect with others.
This article is adapted from the Purpose Pioneers podcast, created by Positive News and supported by Triodos Bank. You can listen to this episode, and others, on the usual streaming podcast platforms and on YouTube.
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