Lifescan Scotland Ltd. Promotes Inclusive Play in Muir of Ord

Members of Muir of Ord Community Association have formally accepted a donation through Play Highland from the medical devices company, Lifescan Scotland Ltd., which has provided vital funding for a birds nest swing for children with disabilities.

The community group has been successful in raising funds to bring their local play area up to modern expectations and sought advice on what play equipment would be suitable for children with special needs.

Play Highland were pleased to support this project and applied to Lifescan Scotland Ltd. for help in funding an item of play equipment for this purpose. This swing is suitable for children of all ages and abilities and is designed to be all inclusive.

Heather MacLean from Muir of Ord Community Association said: “We are very grateful for the donation from Lifescan Scotland. The swing is a very popular item of equipment and a valuable contribution to the play area.”

The refurbished play area in Muir of Ord is adjacent to Tarradale Primary School and community hall. Lifescan Scotland’s financial support is an important step forward in encouraging inclusive play in the area.

Play Highland member, Highland Councillor David Alston, said: "We believe that play areas should be as welcoming and inclusive as possible. Children with disabilities are children first of all – and it is important both that they can play alongside other children in a stimulating activity environment."

Lifescan Scotland Ltd has supported other initiatives to improve play facilities in recent years, with donations towards play equipment at Pefferside Park in Dingwall; Culbokie, on the Black Isle, the Floral Hall Visitor Centre, Inverness and in Ormlie, Thurso.

Willie Printie, Managing Director of LifeScan Scotland Ltd said: "We are pleased to support this valuable community initiative. Encouraging children to go outside and play on equipment of this kind can help their self development and awareness of life outside the classroom."