Darlington Mum SEND centre making significant progress

Kelly Knight, 45, who is a mother of four, is "more motivated than ever" after working tirelessly to bring her vision to life a month on.

Inspired by her five-year-old son, Kane Knight-Simmons, who has global developmental delay and is on the autism pathway, Kelly is determined to make a lasting difference for SEND families by creating 'Kane's World' after recognising the lack of accessible options in the Darlington area.

Kelly Knight and Kane Knight-Simmons (Image: KELLY KNIGHT) Since launching her fundraising campaign, Kelly has seen overwhelming support from the community, local businesses, and the council.

She has now decided to take the next major step by registering ‘Kane’s World’ as a charity.

Kelly said: “This is going to happen. Becoming a registered charity will help us with funding and ensure we can create this as quickly as possible.”

Kelly Knight and Kane Knight-Simmons (Image: KELLY KNIGHT) Kelly and those behind her have been in discussions with Darlington Borough Council, which has shown great support to her initiative.

She emphasised the importance of having council backing, acknowledging that there is a clear lack of resources for SEND families and that ‘Kane’s World’ is a vital solution to this problem.

She has been actively spreading awareness of the project, attending multiple events to engage with the community and gain further support.

Kane Knight-Simmons (Image: KELLY KNIGHT) In addition, she is set to host a fundraising ladies' night tomorrow (Thursday, March 6) at The Vault in Darlington, featuring local drag queen Tess Tickle.

The support has continued to grow, with individuals taking on unique challenges to help raise funds. Some are participating in a sponsored non-verbal event in solidarity with Kane and other non-verbal children.

Kelly has also established a board of trustees for the charity to ensure the long-term success of ‘Kane’s World.’

Kelly, Kane and his one of his sisters Evelyn (Image: KELLY KNIGHT) Reflecting on the response so far, she said: “I cannot believe the response—it has been unbelievable, exciting and completely overwhelming.

“It’s giving me motivation and giving others hope that something is being done to start change.”

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She has also noticed a positive change in Kane over the last few weeks. “He has been a lot more well-behaved, and he seems happier, content, and more confident,” she said.

“Maybe he understands or senses that there is a change happening. It’s hard to tell as he is non-verbal, but I feel like he knows something is different.”

With unwavering dedication, Kelly remains committed to her mission, ensuring that children like Kane have a place to play, grow, and belong. You can help the crowd funder to support Kane's World here.