Center Parcs has launched a Sensory Library at Elveden Forest to provide additional support for neurodivergent children and children with additional needs during family breaks.
The free service, developed with specialist SEN childcare, training and consultancy organisation SENNIES, allows guests to borrow sensory tools, communication aids and practical equipment throughout their stay.
The initiative follows research commissioned by Center Parcs involving 500 UK parents and legal guardians of neurodivergent children and children with additional needs.
The research found 44% did not believe current holiday provision adequately met their child’s needs, while 70% said additional support was required.
Eight in ten respondents said they consider a destination’s ability to meet their child’s individual needs when deciding where to visit.
The same proportion said busy or crowded environments could be challenging for their child, while 75% reported sometimes avoiding activities or facilities because they could become overwhelming.
Almost three-quarters, 72%, said they take sensory equipment or comfort items from home on every or most trips, while 68% said access to sensory and accessibility aids at their destination would improve their child’s holiday experience.
The Sensory Library includes noise-reducing ear defenders, wipe-clean boards, calming lights, fidget toys, feelings wheels, visual timers and pop tubes.
No formal diagnosis is required to use the service, meaning equipment is also available to families awaiting assessment and those who believe the resources would be beneficial.
The launch comes amid increasing demand for neurodevelopmental support. Center Parcs cited the Children’s Commissioner’s latest annual briefing, which reported a 47% year-on-year increase in children’s referrals involving suspected autism and a 24% increase in other neurodevelopmental referrals in England.
Department for Education figures cited by the company show more than 1.8 million pupils in England have special educational needs, while NHS assessment waiting lists have exceeded 240,000.
Richie Williams, Village Director at Center Parcs Elveden Forest, said: “The number of families looking for more thoughtful, practical support is growing, and our research makes clear that this plays a major role in where they choose to spend their holidays.
“Whilst we already offer an array of additional and personalised support at our villages, such as quiet swim sessions, Access for All guidance, and a dedicated Sensory Lodge at Elveden Forest, it’s an area we’ve long wanted to grow further to support all of our guests.
“Parents told us they often travel with additional sensory equipment or comfort items simply to help their child feel comfortable away from home – and that better provision could make families more likely to take regular breaks.
“Our Sensory Library is a direct response. By working with families and SENNIES, we can provide useful equipment at no extra cost and remove one source of pressure from the experience.”
Williams said the pilot would be reviewed using feedback from families before Center Parcs considers a potential rollout to other villages.
Georgia Sargeant, CEO and Founder of SENNIES, added: “No two neurodivergent children are the same, so there is no single adjustment that works for every family.
“What matters is choice, a considered range of options from sensory resources and communication aids through to support for self regulation and co-regulation, so a family can pick what works for their child that day.
“This library turns families’ feedback into practical support and shows how holiday providers can respond meaningfully to changing needs.”
The Sensory Library has been available to all guests staying at Center Parcs Elveden Forest since 18 September, with equipment available to borrow free of charge throughout their stay.