Case Study: Transforming a Sensory Space for More Than Words Advocacy CIC

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Introduction

More Than Words Advocacy CIC is a dedicated day service provider based in Wigan, just outside of Manchester. They offer vital support for adults with learning disabilities and neurodiversity, helping individuals thrive in a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment.

The organisation undertook a major transition to a new, more central premises with the the addition of a state of the art sensory room- an exciting move that brought with it a number of challenges.

Background

More Than Words relocated to a brand-new location in the heart of Wigan. The new site offered potential, but much of the space was not fit for purpose in its original state. To continue offering the high-quality care and services their attendees rely on, they needed to completely transform the building.

One of the key spaces they knew they needed to prioritise was a dedicated sensory room, a space that would allow their attendees to regulate, engage, and decompress in a calm, therapeutic environment. While they had a sensory room in their previous building, it had not fully met the needs of their service users, and they were determined to create a space that would.

The Challenges

• Short Deadline: The move took place just before Christmas, giving the team only six weeks to raise funds, plan, and deliver the sensory room project.

• Budget Constraints: Funding such a transformation required considerable financial support, which wasn’t immediately available.

• Visualising the Space: It was difficult for supporters and families to visualise what the sensory room could look like, especially since the starting point was a blank office space.

• Bespoke Requirements: The new sensory room had to be specifically tailored to the needs of the individuals they support, off-the-shelf solutions wouldn’t suffice.

The Solution

More Than Words launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise money for the sensory room. With the help of their community including families, friends, followers, staff, and local organisations they organised a wide range of fundraising events:

• Sponsored walks

• Raffles

• Cake sales run by the attendees

• Exercise-a-thons and karaoke sessions

Support also came from local businesses and institutions. GoNorthWest, a local transport company, contributed funding, and Wigan County Council offered match funding, which played a crucial role in hitting the target within the short timeframe.

To help secure buy-in from the community, Creative Activity provided detailed 3D visuals of the proposed sensory room. These plans helped supporters truly understand what the space could become, making it easier to raise awareness and funds.

Once the project was funded, the Creative Activity team visited the site, conducted a full survey, and recommended bespoke sensory features tailored to the service users’ specific needs. The installation team, led by Chris, adapted on the spot where needed and ensured the room delivered maximum impact.

Results

The sensory room was completed on time and is now fully in use. The response from attendees has been overwhelmingly positive:

• The room has generated significant interest from students, with many drawn to the space daily.

• Staff have already seen the room’s potential to make a huge impact on the overall day provision.

• The transformation has not only improved the physical space but enhanced the overall wellbeing and engagement of those who use it.

Feedback 

“Chris, who came to fit the room, was just brilliant. He adapted things for what we needed and made it all work. The process from start to finish was absolutely fantastic. We've been supported every step of the way.

We highly recommend Creative Activity for all your sensory needs.

 

– Stacey Forsyth-Duffy, Partnerships & Developments Manager

Start Your Sensory Journey

If your school is exploring ways to support regulation, wellbeing, and inclusive learning through sensory spaces, we’re here to help. Whether it’s a corridor transformation or a complete sensory room, our team will work with you from concept to completion.

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