A NEW multi-sensory room for adults who have learning disabilities and elderly people was opened by the Mayor of Newport this week.

On Tuesday morning, a new multi-sensory facility was officially opened at Newport City Council’s Brynglas Adult Training Centre by the Mayor of Newport, councillor Herbie Thomas.

The centre, on Brynglas Road, offers a day centre which provides support and activities for adults who have a learning disability and complex needs. The building has recently been refurbished to improve its facilities, as well as a new multi-sensory room.

Those behind the project hope the upgraded facilities will “give opportunities for individuals to experience a range of activities which they can engage in and be empowered by”.

The room can be used for either a relaxing and calming experience or something more stimulating.

It is believed time spent in the sensory room can increase concentration, focus attention, improve alertness, awaken memories and improve mobilisation, creativity and social interaction.

Councillor Paul Cockeram, Newport City Council’s cabinet member for adult and community services, said: “The new multi-sensory room will play an integral part in the day service offered at Brynglas.

“It will provide individuals with the opportunity to interact with new technology and to control and develop their activity to meet their own needs and preferences.

“I’m so pleased we now have specialist facilities such as this in Newport which will be greatly beneficial to those who need it.”

In April this year the Brynglas day centre expanded its service after Ringwood House, in Dents Hill, closed. Day care services for people with learning disabilities and mental health conditions were transferred from Ringwood to Brynglas.

Ringwood House used to be provide day time activities such as physio sessions, hydrotherapy, cooking, music and sport as well as a multi-sensory room.