Inclusive play centre in Fazakerley recieves funding from Merseyside Police

Lumiere Inclusive Play & Sensory Centre in Fazakerley has received a cash boost from Merseyside Police’s Operation Payback.

£1,741.20 was presented to the charity to support its inclusive sensory and soft‑play services for children with additional needs.

Operation Payback is a partnership initiative with Liverpool Crown Court and Merseyside Police designed to put seized cash from drug dealers back into local charities and voluntary organisations – supporting communities to help improve the lives and prospects of people who need these services most.

Founded in sisters Linda and Melissa in 2024, Lumiere offers an immersive, accessible environment where children and young people with diverse needs can play, learn and thrive – giving families a safe, welcoming space that celebrates inclusion.

Recent research shows that over 800,000 children in England have a recognised SEND diagnosis, yet a vast number of families report lacking access to suitable leisure or community spaces. 

Lumiere’s facility is designed to remove barriers, not just physically, but socially and emotionally. Linda and Melissa are driven by the belief that inclusion should never be an afterthought.

During Detective Sergeant Paul Doran’s visit, Linda highlighted the story of Jaxon, a young boy with Kabuki Syndrome, whose family struggled to find appropriate play spaces before Lumiere opened, underlining the importance of accessible, local provision.

The funding will help sustain the centre’s specialist equipment and sessions, while supporting families who rely on its inclusive approach.

Operation Payback takes money out of the pockets of criminals and returns it to the community by funding projects that make a positive difference.

DS Paul Doran said:

“Lumiere is exactly the kind of community space Operation Payback exists to support. It provides a safe, inclusive environment for children with additional needs and a vital network for their families.

“It’s privilege for Operation Payback to support local charities like Lumiere, providing a contribution to help them continue their mission to ensure every child has a place to grow, play and thrive.”

Find out more about Lumiere Inclusive Play & Sensory Centre here.

Find out more about Merseyside Police community funding here.

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