MASKK Speak Up
Download (PDF 949.02 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Sheffield provided a grant to MASKK (Manor After School Kids Klub) to engage children, young people, and parents in conversations about SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) services and wider health support.
Using the Playwork approach, they designed and delivered multiple engagement activities including surveys, creative sessions, and informal conversations. These were held in community settings, alongside wider community groups to ensure accessibility and target different groups. They heard from 75 people (children and parents/carers).
Common themes and suggested improvements from parents/carers and children
- Creating separate, sensory-supported waiting areas aligns with evidence showing these spaces reduce anxiety and improve participation.
- Providing fidget toys and calming visuals is supported by play therapy research which demonstrates clear stress reduction benefits.
- Offering entertainment options and interactive play has been proven to engage children, distract anxiety, and foster cooperation during visits.
- Implementing flexible seating arrangements allows children to move and control their experience, which research links to reduced stress and better focus.
- Communicating real-time waiting information and apologies builds trust, reduces frustration, and enhances overall satisfaction - even when delays occur.