Better Business / Member profile
Gympanzees joins the Better Business network
Gympanzees was born out of need identified by Stephanie Wheen, their CEO and a physiotherapist, who specialises in children and young people with disabilities. Many of Stephanie’s clients struggled to find accessible leisure facilities.
Their mission is to enable every child and young person (0-25yrs) with a disability to access regular play, exercise and friendship, to improve their physical and mental health and wellbeing, and minimise isolation.
This is currently achieved through their pop ups, an equipment lending library and an online resources hub that has supported thousands of children and young people with disabilities. We have over the last six years welcomed over 23,000 children and young people to Pop Up and have delivered 141 days of support.
In the summer of 2023, we purchased a site for £3.3m. This unique destination, based in South Gloucestershire, includes 43,000 sqft building on a 14-acre site with 500 parking spaces and large woodland areas that will serve their community. It will be open seven days a week, 364 days a year and provide a safe and welcoming, fully accessible and inclusive environment with dedicated amenities and experienced staff. The first of its kind in the UK.
They now need to raise £8 million by 2026 to open their doors on a purpose built facility for families, turning this building into a home for the 1.1million disabled children and young people in the UK, 66,000 of which live within an hours drive of Bristol. Offering 10 activity rooms filled with extraordinary equipment to meet the play, exercise and social needs of all children and young people that could attend as we could have up to 200,000 visitors each year. This property will also allow them to work collaboratively with other organisations and explore commercial opportunities.
Gympanzees believe being able to exercise and play is a right for every child and young person, regardless of their ability. their new home will provide endless possibilities for health, happiness and support. Siblings can play together, and parents can make friendships.
We continue to consult with our families who have played a vital role in sharing their stories to ensure the facility will make a massive impact in their lives for years to come
If you would like to learn more visit Gympanzees – A world of fun & fitness for all disabled children.
Main photo: Gympanzees
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