The Isle of Wight Council’s Short Breaks service is extending the range of activities it offers to eligible families by offering the use of a specially adapted beach hut.
The accessible hut, which is available for use by families of children and young people with additional needs, is based on Hope Beach in Shanklin and can be rented for just £7.50 a day.
It has been adapted to include a large door on its side and a ramp, allowing easy access into the hut. It is also close to disabled facilities such as a dedicated parking bay and an accessible toilet.
The hut also features a ‘Landeez’ wheelchair, which is designed to go over difficult terrain such as sand, meaning families can experience a day out by the seaside without any barriers.
Richard Priest, Isle of Wight Council cabinet member responsible for children’s services said:
“It is wonderful news that children and young people with additional needs can now use this excellent facility and enjoy days out on the beach. “Both Shanklin Town Council and Cllr Jon Gilbey (cabinet member for resources) were very keen for an accessible facility to be available on the seafront and it is pleasing this has now been made possible. I am sure the hut will be enjoyed by many people and the availability of an all terrain wheelchair is also a very important addition which will be well used.”
A minimum of 48 hours booking notice is required, and no more than two consecutive days can be booked at any one time. It is limited to groups of no more than six people and is available between 15 April and 1 September each year.
Any eligible families who wish to book the beach hut, or find out more information, should contact the Short Breaks team on (01983) 823168 or speak to Lesley Forde on 821999.
