A NEW centre is opening in Runcorn to help children with cerebral palsy and their families.

The charity Stick ‘n’ Step provides youngsters with free of charge conductive education sessions, allowing them to gain the skills they need to live independent lives.

Ahead of its opening later this month, a community day was held at the new centre at Tudor Hall on York Street on Saturday.

It was a chance for families who live nearby to meet the staff and some of the young people who will attend classes there.

Children enjoyed playing on a bouncy castle and trying out some games like Splat the Rat and giant Connect 4.

They also enjoyed face painting, had a go at some karaoke and feasted on a barbecue, kindly supplied by Runcorn Co-op stores.

Stick ‘n’ Step chief executive Amy Couture said: “With one in every 400 children affected by cerebral palsy, we know there is high demand for parents looking for support.

“Now we have a centre open in Cheshire, we can ultimately double the number of children and families we can help.

“We are very grateful to the Steve Morgan Foundation and The Williams Family Foundation whose generous support has enabled us to create this wonderful new facility in Runcorn.”

Stick ‘n’ Step provides free conductive education sessions to children with cerebral palsy. The charity’s support improves mobility, independence and boosts self-confidence, enabling every child to reach their personal potential.

Conductive education is about active learning. Stick ‘n’ Step sessions incorporate play and music into structured routines to develop functional skills.

Children and young people are motivated by working alongside their peers in a positive environment and are empowered to achieve realistic goals that are specific and relevant to them.

Stick ‘n’ Step supports the whole family. Regular attendance at the centre means that parents and extended family have the opportunity to meet others in a similar situation and they benefit from regular respite time whilst their children develop in the classroom

To find out how to access support from Stick ‘n’ Step or how to help this charity visit sticknstep.org or call the Runcorn centre on 01928 573777.