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Sleep Out challenge launched to raise funds for sensory garden

This March, local residents, individuals, businesses and community organisations are being asked to trade their warm beds for a sleeping bag to help transform a neglected patch of land into a sanctuary for families with disabled children.

The 'TVP Sleep Out' is a fundraising challenge with a difference aimed at turning an unusable outdoor space at the charity’s new centre in Thames Valley Park into a fully inclusive, sensory-focused and immersive garden.

Participants will spend one night outside under the stars and sponsorship monies raised from their efforts will go towards building something that will bring lasting memories to the area's disabled children.

The current garden area is unfit for purpose, but the Sleep Out aims to change that.

Funds raised by the challenge participants will be used to design a space where children of all abilities can play, explore and relax.

Once completed, the garden will be a vibrant, uplifting environment filled with interactive elements and adapted play equipment offering families a safe, welcoming space to spend time together completely free of charge.

While the challenge of spending a night outdoors is simple, the purpose behind it is profound. The temporary discomfort of participants will create a lasting legacy of connection for families who often struggle to find inclusive, accessible outdoor spaces.


Jason McMahon, Head of Fundraising, emphasises the power of community action:

"As Head of Fundraising, one of the most rewarding parts of my role is seeing what happens when a community comes together with a shared purpose. This March, we’re inviting you to do something a little different and a little outside of your comfort zone.

“This garden will become a place of laughter, play, discovery and connection for the families we support.

“Everyone who takes part will know they played a part in making it possible. Together, we can turn one night outside into something that will bring smiles and unforgettable moments for families for many years to come."


The event is open to individuals, local businesses, schools, and community groups. For those unable to sleep out, BftF is also encouraged by the incredible generosity of those wishing to make a donation or sponsor a participant.

Two organisations on the Park have already pledged their support with Knight Frank spending a day clearing the garden to make it habitable and safe for the sleepers and David Lloyd Clubs Reading offering to keep the night going with a warm place to gather over soup or hot chocolate.

Every pound raised through the TVP Sleep Out will go directly towards the construction of the new garden, ensuring that ‘children can simply be children’ in a space designed with their specific needs at its heart.

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