Libraries Unlimited, the charity commissioned to run the libraries in Devon and Torbay, has launched a new leaflet and set of resources to help children, young people and families with neurodiverse conditions explore some of Devon’s more accessible outdoor spaces.
The Outdoor Explorer Club features five trails across the county, each with a short story, an audio recording, and clear accessibility information. Braille copies of the leaflet are available by request, and printed copies can be collected from selected Devon and Torbay libraries.
The project, funded by Devon County Council, has been co-produced by Libraries Unlimited with Champions for Change, a network of SEND young people, and local SEND schools. A partnership with Sound Communities also allowed for young people to be paid for their contributions, gaining valuable work experience through the process.
Partners include Devon County Council, Autism Oxford, National Trust, Devon Wildlife Trust, Dartmoor National Park, Forestry England, Torbay Coast and Countryside Trust and Sound Communities.
Libraries Unlimited developed the resources after local consultation with SEND children and young people who reported barriers to getting outdoors. The result is a practical and inclusive guide for families with children aged 8 and over to enjoy Heddon’s Mouth, Riverside Valley Park, Berry Head, Haldon Forest and Burrator Arboretum.
Shirin Khastar, Devon County Council Participation Worker for SEND said: “The Champions for Change group really enjoyed working on this project. It was a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with professionals, share ideas, and learn from each other’s unique experiences. From the beginning, everyone played a part in creating the accessible leaflet. The final result reflects the group’s shared values, voices, and creativity—and shows what can be achieved through teamwork and thoughtful collaboration.”
Alex Kittow, Chief Executive, Libraries Unlimited added: “Libraries are now these wonderful accessible spaces for neurodiverse families with sensory areas, accessible performances and even video tours of all of our libraries which can be explored before visiting. Our libraries welcome everyone. And now we are using stories that people come to the library for, to help those families explore the incredible outdoor spaces that our beautiful county has to offer!”
The Outdoor Explorer Club leaflets are now available from Exeter, Paignton, Tavistock, Ivybridge, Brixham, Lynton, Ilfracombe and Newton Abbot libraries. More details and downloadable resources are online at:
librariesunlimited.org.uk/outdoor-explorer-club
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