News Maidstone Museum unveils peaceful Christmas experience for SEND adults and those living with Dementia
Santa will be visiting Maidstone Museum to meet with adults with special and educational needs and those with Dementia.
The peaceful ‘Jingle Bell Experience’ has been created through the museum working in partnership with Maidstone Rotary Club.
Whilst everyone is welcome to book a session, the experience has been specially designed to provide a calm and welcoming atmosphere. It is suitable for teens and adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), individuals living with dementia, and anyone who would prefer a quieter visit with Father Christmas.
Visitors will be greeted by one of Father Christmas’s friendly elves before enjoying a private, timed slot with Father Christmas himself. Guests are welcome to take their own photographs or ask an elf to capture the moment. Each visitor will receive a special scroll and a jingle bell as a keepsake of their magical experience.
The event will run on selected dates and times to ensure a relaxed environment. Tickets are priced at £10 per person, with accompanying carers or adults attending free of charge. Advance booking is essential via Maidstone Borough Council’s ticketing system.
Martin Cox, who is this year’s President elect of Maidstone Rotary Club, said: “As a Rotary club that has been working for the residents of Maidstone for over 100 years we are once again delighted to say that ‘Father Christmas’ is able to help us spread the joy and wonder of Christmas and at the same time raise money for local charities.”
Natalie Moor, Museums & Heritage Manager, said: “Christmas should be a time of joy for everyone, and we’re proud to offer an experience that is inclusive and sensitive to individual needs.“The Jingle Bell Experience allows visitors to enjoy the magic of meeting Father Christmas in a calm, friendly setting, without the hustle and bustle of traditional festive events.”
For more information and to book your slot, visit museum.maidstone.gov.uk or email museumeducation@maidstone.gov.uk.