Umbrella is a charity supporting disabled children and young adults from 5 to 30 in Derby and Derbyshire. They have two sites, one recently acquired in 2020 which required significant investment leaving them short of time and funds to consider their furniture, fixtures and equipment provision. After visiting the Cosy site in early 2024 the team at Umbrella saw the potential to revamp their provision and only a few weeks later, their settings have been transformed.

“Because there is such a focus on fundraising for building maintenance and upkeep, it’s been hard to focus on purchasing equipment and furniture.” Said Ann Rowlands, MBE, CEO of Umbrella. “Before working with Cosy, the sites looked a little tired and worn out. The added challenge for us is making sure that the resources we use are appropriate for all of our children and young adults.” 

“Because we spend a lot of our time fundraising and the funding we have was needed at one of our sites more than the other, the tired and worn-out equipment made us feel challenged, and disappointed.”

Working alongside the Cosy Foundation, an organisation set up to support a wide and varied range of community projects, the Umbrella team invested in enough equipment for two sites, including sheds, Tuff Spots, wig wams, rugs, chairs, tables, bookcases, archways and much more. “It is amazing to see the difference. Everything changed! It’s absolutely incredible. I walked into the garden last week and it’s really beautiful. The balance area was being used, there was laughter in the air. There’s equipment suitable for everyone. 

Our children and young people just love playing outside, being in the garden, chilling, balancing. Due to their individual disabilities, not everyone can make use of everything but there’s something for everyone. 

The new equipment enables our Activity Support Workers to give children and young people different experiences. We try to ensure that everyone embraces their abilities, and we also help children to challenge themselves with more progression and independence, and to build their confidence.”

Nicola Cheney, Early Years Specialist at Cosy, said: "Umbrella, now in their 39th year, were a dream to work with. They have great vision and passion for what they need so combined with our knowledge of what works made it a very enjoyable exchange and we’re both absolutely delighted with the outcome.” 

Asked whether she’d recommend Cosy to someone else looking to resource their furniture, fixtures and equipment needs, Ann replied: “the quality of the resources is really high. It is sturdy and well made. Working with Cosy is so easy, they have excellent customer services and aftercare support. The whole team are so supportive. Cosy have become a real friend.”