Members of the SEND, Special Educational Needs and disabilities, community are \u2018delighted\u2019 after the Rainbow Kite Project rescued six chickens, bringing dreams closer to reality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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 \u2018develop independence\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Becca Oseman, Co Director of the Rainbow Kite Project, said that the arrival of the chickens has been \u2018extremely positive, providing both calm and responsibility for the clients\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Osian Wilson, a 24 year old client, said: \u201cMost people look at chickens as either boring or dinner, but I see them as my maturest friends.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr Wilson added: \u201cJust being around them is really calming even on a bad day.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n
James Cheung, 25, another client, said: \u201cI really enjoy spending time with the chickens. You can give them a stroke or a wellbeing check.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr Cheung also said: \u201cI dream of having my own chickens!\u201d Mr Cheung runs his own business, Little Doolittle, which provides a number of services for small animals, including home boarding and welfare checks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lulu Knott, 23, a client, explained how spending time with the chickens can \u2018keep my mental health in check\u2019, saying the allotment is a place where she \u2018doesn\u2019t need to think about anything\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ms Oseman and Ellen Kelly have directed the support service since it opened, over two years ago. Ms Oseman said: \u201cThe service has worked really hard to build a community where people can be themselves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cI\u2019ve seen the clients come on socially as well as gaining a massive growth in independence.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n