Retirement Gifts for Swings & Smiles Recently, we were very lucky to be chosen by a local man, Bob, to be the recipient of his retirement gifts. Instead of receiving any gifts himself, Bob asked his team at West Berkshire Council to make a collection for Swings & Smiles which we then used to purchase some wonderful toys and equipment for the centre. Bob worked for the West Berkshire Special Educational Needs (SEN) Team for more than ten years and will be well known to both parents and professionals throughout the Authority. He is the father of a young person with additional needs. Bob said “As a member of the SEN Team I have always put the children and young people first. From personal experience I understand how important it is to have support. It has been both a pleasure and a privilege to work alongside so many wonderful parents and professionals, and to see vulnerable children achieve their potential. I have long recognised what a fantastic job Swings & Smiles does, not only for our most vulnerable children, but also for their families providing much needed respite for parents and support for siblings. Their support is a lifeline to many and thoroughly deserving of whatever support the community can provide. It was my great pleasure to provide one final piece of much needed help to enrich the lives of some of the children that I have been supporting.” Bob's retirement gifts include a dancing switch adapted sloth and adaptive Disney fancy dress costumes. The children have loved playing with them and they've been a great addition to the centre. CEO of Swings & Smiles, Laura Lewis said "We were really touched by Bob's gesture and to know that we had such an impact on him during his time working in the SEN team. His toys have all been a huge hit!" Thank you Bob, and we wish you a very happy retirement!