Members of the SEND, Special Educational Needs and disabilities, community are ‘delighted’ after the Rainbow Kite Project rescued six chickens, bringing dreams closer to reality.

Rainbow Kite Project is a community of SEND specialists based in NE Derbyshire, Sheffield, Chesterfield and surrounding areas. Their aim is to help individuals with autism, learning disabilities, complex needs, and PDA to ‘develop independence’.

A survey to name the chickens living at an Eckington allotment is underway; almost 20 names have already been put forward, including Kim Kardashi-Hen. The survey is set to close on Wednesday, 4th March. 

Becca Oseman, Co Director of the Rainbow Kite Project, said that the arrival of the chickens has been ‘extremely positive, providing both calm and responsibility for the clients’. 

Osian Wilson, a 24 year old client, said: “Most people look at chickens as either boring or dinner, but I see them as my maturest friends.” 

Mr Wilson added: “Just being around them is really calming even on a bad day.” 

James Cheung, 25, another client, said: “I really enjoy spending time with the chickens. You can give them a stroke or a wellbeing check.” 

Mr Cheung also said: “I dream of having my own chickens!” Mr Cheung runs his own business, Little Doolittle, which provides a number of services for small animals, including home boarding and welfare checks.

The allotment group meets every Friday, and is a great way to ensure that the clients can spend time outdoors, even if that means having to brave the rain.

Lulu Knott, 23, a client, explained how spending time with the chickens can ‘keep my mental health in check’, saying the allotment is a place where she ‘doesn’t need to think about anything’.

Ms Oseman and Ellen Kelly have directed the support service since it opened, over two years ago. Ms Oseman said: “The service has worked really hard to build a community where people can be themselves.

“I’ve seen the clients come on socially as well as gaining a massive growth in independence.”

Rainbow Kite Project has ambitious plans for the future, including setting up a playgroup for SEND children. To find out more about the Rainbow Kite project visit: Rainbow Kite Project | Specialist Community Support.

To vote for a name for the chickens, visit: Names for the Rainbow Kite Chickens