A PIONEERING scheme in which children with disabilities were integrated into a summer playscheme has won praise for its work.

The project was the result of co-operation between Derwentside Leisure Services, Villa Real Special School, Social Services and the Children's Fund.

Derwentside District Council's marketing manager for leisure services, Sue Fox, said the principle adopted was that all children and young people had the right to be included in community activities.

She said: "Working closely with parents to assess each individual child's need, the partnership looked at ways of overcoming barriers including transport, the bringing in of one-to-one support and medical issues that had prevented the idea reaching fruition in the past.

"Problems were resolved with financial support from the Children's Fund in the financing of a pilot scheme that included employing ten special support workers who were incorporated into the now well established Leisure Rangers team."

All staff attended general leisure and activity training, disability awareness and lifting and handling courses.

Support workers were matched with children with special needs.

Activities chosen by the children ranged from horse riding and golf, to skiing and swimming.

Ms Fox said: "The long-term aim is to open the scheme up to all disabled children living in the Derwentside area."

Further information about the playscheme can be obtained from Colin McBride on (01207) 218527.