More than 450 people from across Gwent gathered for a summer fun day at Serennu Children's Centre in Newport.

The day was enriched with a number of stalls courtesy of local favourites such as the Drago Lounge, with exciting activities on offer from organisations such as the Gwent Dragons, Gwent Police and Circus of Positivity.

Often, community events are not accessible for children such as those supported by Sparkle, and there are fewer opportunities to play and socialise due to challenges related to physical accessibility, sensory sensitivities, and social stigmas.

These factors can make many social events found in the community overwhelming, often causing families to avoid attending and miss out on experiences that are vital for the growth and development of young people.

Sparkle events provide a familiar environment for the children and young people who can recognise the faces of Sparkle volunteers who each understand the varied additional needs of all families in attendance.

Additionally, every activity is accessible to all regardless of individual requirements, and there are opportunities for parents and siblings of children with complex needs to join in and experience the day as a family.

Claire Barton, parent of Cerys Barton aged 17, said: "Above all, this is a place of safety and familiarity. All of the families here are united by similar experiences and perspectives, having been through similar situations.

"Moments of tension, are met with understanding rather than judgement whereas this isn't always the case in the outside world."

The event was also attended by the Mayor of Newport, Cllr Ray Mogford, who recently announced Sparkle as one of his chosen charities of the year.

He said: "We are grateful to Sparkle for inviting us to their funday. It's been a lovely morning and witnessing the joy of all the families has been genuinely uplifting.

"Today's event has been remarkable, not just for the interesting people we've met but the new appointments that have come out of it, paving the way for future closely-related opportunities to get involved with. We eagerly anticipate the next Sparkle event."

Sparkle would like to thank all organisations and volunteers who attended in support of their annual Summer funday.