Meadowgate Special School in Wisbech launches appeal to raise £40,000 to save vital hydrotherapy pool

A special needs school is appealing for help to save its hydrotherapy pool after three funding bids have been rejected.

Meadowgate Special School in Wisbech needs £40,000 to get the pool open again, with vital work needed to repair its heating system.

This is the only hydrotherapy pool located in Fenland, and it provides pupils with complex medical and health needs access to physiotherapy.

A total of three funding bids have been rejected by the Department of Education.

The pool facilities include hoist systems that can safely lift pupils with physical disabilities between the changing rooms and pool.

Hydrotherapy is said to promote normal body development, decrease pain and support general health for pupils with complex health conditions.

The water must be heated to 34 degrees to have any therapeutic benefits.

Hair World Ltd, a wig shop in Wisbech, has been one of the first to contribute to the amount of money needed by donating £1,000.

Head teacher of Meadowgate Michelle Flanz said: “We are so grateful for this donation. Not having the pool means pupils are not able to have a key part of their physiotherapy provision.

“Staff are working hard to provide more land-based exercises but the pool is much missed. If any other businesses could help or local groups we would love to hear from you. Please help us to reopen our pool.”

If you have a donation to make, contact hydro@meadowgate.cambs.sch.uk to get i