A Truly Special New Outdoor Play Area at Derian House Children’s Hospice

The Playground Project

Based in Chorley, Lancashire, Derian House helps babies, children and young people, whose lives are too short, to make happy memories in an environment of fun, respect and high quality care, providing respite and end-of-life care to more than 400 children and young people across the North West and South Cumbria. The hospice looks after children and young people right up until their 26th birthday, offering palliative care, respite stays, day care, holidays and end of life support, with continued transition support up to the age of 28. Their ethos is simple but powerful to help every child and family make the most of every precious moment they have together. Hospice UKHelp & Support Manchester For the children Derian House supports, positive experiences are not just enjoyable, they are absolutely vital. Play is a fundamental part of childhood, sparking joy, laughter, connection and a sense of freedom. Yet for children with life-limiting conditions or complex needs, accessing standard playground equipment is often impossible. That is why this new play area matters so much. ESP PLAY designed and delivered a fully inclusive outdoor space tailored to the children's specific needs. The area includes wheelchair-accessible trampolines, inclusive swings and accessible play units, allowing children of all abilities to experience the thrill, movement and sensory feedback of play that many have never been able to enjoy before. Sensory pathways guide little explorers through a world of tactile, visual and auditory discovery, while beautifully designed sensory play panels invite touch, sound and imagination at every turn. Every element has been chosen to spark smiles, support development and create the kind of happy memories Derian House strives to give every family. ESP PLAY was honoured to design and deliver such a deeply meaningful project, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the incredible team at Derian House for the extraordinary work they do every single day.