A CROWD funding campaign has been launched to bring books and stories to life for North-East children with special educational needs.

Seven Stories, the National Centre for Children’s Books, in Newcastle, is hoping to raise £7,000 to fund a range of fully accessible events and experiences.

The idea is to allow youngsters to step into their favourite stories in an inclusive and sensory environment, including BSL/Makaton interpretations for performances and story times

The campaign and is being supported by award-winning author and illustrator Nick Sharratt who recently donated his archive to Seven Stories.

He said: “I love coming to Seven Stories and this campaign will open up the magic and power of children’s books to even more families, in a completely new way.

“I am always amazed at the creativity and dedication that goes into making Seven Stories an inclusive and immersive experience for every child and I urge everyone who has ever been transported by the power of stories to get behind this campaign.”

The Life-changing Stories campaign goes live on Crowdfunder UK from next Monday.

Kate Edwards, chief executive of the museum and gallery, said: “Our ambition is for Seven Stories to be a hub for parents and carers of children with disabilities to socialise, play and learn more about how to enrich their children’s lives through the wonderful world of children’s books.

“All of the money raised will go towards making our activities more accessible to children with additional needs and their families by providing sensory resources that will bring our exhibitions, events and stories to life in a whole new way.

“All children deserve the chance to enjoy books and stories, however they experience the world.

“We already work with parents, carers and schools across the UK to inspire children and families to choose, enjoy and share books together and this is a chance to bring this offer to even more young people.”

To pledge support visit crowdfunder.co.uk/life-changing-stories