Center Parcs has launched a Sensory Library for neurodivergent children at Elveden Forest, with plans to roll out the initiative across all six of its UK and Ireland villages by 2028.
The library, which opened on 18 September, offers families free access to sensory tools, communication aids and other practical equipment during their stay.
It was developed with guidance from SENNIES, a specialist SEN childcare, training and consultancy organisation.
Available items include noise-reducing ear defenders, calming lights, visual timetables, fidget toys, feelings wheels, visual timers, pop tubes and wipe-clean boards.
Center Parcs Elveden Forest’s Sensory Library provides free sensory equipment and practical resources for familiesCenter Parcs
Families can borrow items free of charge, with no diagnosis required. The library is available to those awaiting an assessment or self-identifying as needing the resources.
Richie Williams, village director at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, said: "The number of families looking for more thoughtful, practical support is growing, and our research makes clear that this plays a major role in where they choose to spend their holidays.
"Whilst we already offer an array of additional and personalised support at our villages, such as quiet swim sessions, Access for All guidance, and a dedicated Sensory Lodge at Elveden Forest, it’s an area we’ve long wanted to grow further to support all of our guests."
Williams said the library was developed in response to feedback from families and would provide equipment at no extra cost.
He added: "This pilot is the beginning of a journey, and we will listen closely to families using it and learn from their feedback as we consider what comes next and a future rollout to other villages."
Remy Blackburn enjoys Center Parcs Elveden Forest’s Sensory Library, offering sensory resources for neurodivergent families.Center Parcs
The launch follows research commissioned by Center Parcs among 500 UK parents and legal guardians of neurodivergent children and children with additional needs.
It found that 44 percent said holiday provision does not meet their child’s needs, while 70 percent want more support. Meanwhile, 75 percent avoid potentially overwhelming activities, and 68 percent said sensory and accessibility aids would improve holidays.
Center Parcs has six villages across the UK and Ireland, in Nottinghamshire, Suffolk, Wiltshire, Cumbria, Bedfordshire and County Longford. A new village in the Scottish Borders is due to open in 2029.
