A valuable community resource has reopened again at St Justus Church, Rochester.
The Sensory Room had been present at the church for several years and had been run with care and dedication by Keith and Christine Usmar. However, due to the pandemic and volunteers to supervise it, it had not been in use for some time.
However, since taking on the role of Parish Administrator in November, it has been a passion of Samantha Murphy's to get the room functional once again:
"With my being in the church office three days a week, it was an ideal opportunity to revamp the room and hire it out as a community resource."
Having a background in Health and Social Care, she understands the positive impact that this type of support can have on individuals:
"Sensory rooms can aid the development of young children and support the wellbeing of older children and adults with learning disabilities, autism, and dementia."
She continues:
"Any donations given by users help with the upkeep of the room equipment, while Sensory Room policy and guidelines, alongside safeguarding protocols, ensure it is a safe and welcoming place for all users.”
The room is available to book on a Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday between 10am and 2pm. Please contact the church for more details on office@stjustus.org