A popular Santa's Grotto Bus is returning to Newcastle in December and the best part is - it is accessible for children with disabilities and free to visit.
Since 2018, Stagecoach and The Chronicle Sunshine Fund have worked in partnership to create an accessible and inclusive Santa's Grotto that is free of charge for families in the North East. While the event has been a firm favourite among supporters of the Sunshine Fund for many years, it has grown in popularity recently as families have faced ongoing financial struggles in a post-pandemic world.
With the cost of living crisis putting unprecedented pressure on thousands of households, many parents are having to make tough decisions about how to spend their income. Unfortunately this will mean many children will not be able to visit Santa where paid tickets are required.
The return of the Stagecoach Grotto Bus will ensure youngsters can still experience a treasured Christmas tradition as access to the bus is free for everyone. The bus will be on Northumberland Street (Haymarket end), in Newcastle City Centre, from Monday, December 12, to Sunday, December 18.
Rachel Kaczmar, the charity's family coordinator, said: " Parents and carers of children with disabilities and additional needs know only too well how difficult it is to access festive events that are accessible, inclusive and judgement free that suit the individual and sometimes complex needs of their child. Parents also worry about the experience their child is able to have at many popular Christmas events who offer a 'one size fits all' experience with no additional adjustments or accommodations for them.
"The Stagecoach Grotto bus offers children the opportunity to meet Santa, who will extend a warm welcome to visitors (of all ages and needs) into the grotto. Over the years we've had our grotto bus, Santa has had extensive experience in creating inclusive and meaningful interactions, taking into consideration any additional needs or disabilities.
"This creates the most magical, relaxed environment for families, without worrying about adhering to time schedules or limits, free from judgement or pressure. As advocates for our children and their families, we are immensely proud and grateful to be working with Stagecoach once again to offer this magical experience for children with disabilities and additional needs."
Siobhan Sargeant, charity director, added: "Whilst we love working with Stagecoach throughout the year, we absolutely love the festive season with them and are thrilled to be able to bring this much-loved event to Newcastle in 2022 for not only children living with disabilities and additional needs, but everyone who wants the chance to see Santa this Christmas. We might be biased but we can confidently say our Santa is the real deal and it truly warms our hearts to see him interact with children, and adults, of all ages and needs creating magical memories.
"You can visit our official Grotto Bus from Monday 12th to Sunday 18th December on Northumberland Street. Please follow us on social media ( @sunshinefund ) for updates and times or visit our website in the coming weeks.
"Pre-booking is not required. We are also looking for volunteers to support us with the Grotto Bus so if you'd like to take part, please contact our Head Elf, Rachel.Kaczmar@thesunshinefund.org for more information."
The Sunshine Fund provides essential specialist and adapted equipment for children with disabilities and terminal illnesses that often costs thousands of pounds. This can range from powered wheelchairs and specialist beds to car seats and communication equipment.
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