Features / disability
‘She loves her new Peppa Pig chair and is very excited to show it off to everyone’
A wheelchair company based in St Jude’s is creating wheelchairs for children using ground-breaking technology and fun designs.
TinyTrax, which makes lightweight wheelchairs for children aged between two and ten that adapts and adjusts as children grow, has teamed up with the Peppa Pig franchise to create a new range of chairs.
Peppa Pig has been one of the most celebrated animate TV characters in recent years, instilling change and helping children understand difference.
“Parents of able-bodied children can get any kind of branded merchandise, such as Peppa Pig bicycles, why shouldn’t parents of disabled children have that same opportunity?” says Simon Halsey, CEO of TinyTrax.
Five-year-old Sienna Richards is the first child to receive a Peppa Pig chair.
Sienna, who lives in Bristol with her parents, was born prematurely and now lives with cerebral palsy. Having grown out of her previous chair, the new wheelchair will let her move easily through the word.
“This will give her a huge confidence boost she needs, as well as encouraging her independence and ability to play with her siblings and friends – just like Peppa Pig,” says Sienna’s mum, Angela Richards.
“TinyTrax has given Sienna a chance for independence that she’s never had before. She can race around with her peers and play with her sister, without relying on us or an adult to push her.”
Sienna is the first child to receive the special chair
TinyTrax emphasises the “right to play” through its wheelchairs, with Simon saying: “Play is essential for children as it helps in developing their imagination, dexterity, physical, cognitive and emotional well-being.
“It allows children to conquer their fears and master the world. Our chairs are revolutionising children’s mobility, giving them a ‘no barriers’ approach to life while providing them an opportunity to express themselves.”
All photos: Jessica Whitehorn
Read more: How easy is it for wheelchair users to access Bristol’s cultural venues?
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