CHILDREN at a nursery in Brickfields have been bought a selection of dolls with visible disabilities in a bid to boost inclusivity.

The new dolls are already having a profound effect on the children at Fairfield Day Nursery, in Carnforth Drive, as they learn about different disabilities.

Staff purchased the dolls from Bright Ears UK to help the children learn about disability and that everyone is different. 

Emma Walkey, SENCo at the nursery, said: "We have a big ethos around inclusion and taking in every child's needs and catering for them. 

"We did a review on how we could improve inclusion with the children and we did some internet research and found out about the importance of the doll aspect and role play. 

Worcester News: Ruby Watson-Hart at Fairfield Day Nursery playing with a Bright Ears UK dollRuby Watson-Hart at Fairfield Day Nursery playing with a Bright Ears UK doll

"A few children at the nursery need hearing aids and the company had a doll with them, we thought it would help them and some other children to take note of the additional equipment some people need.

"The doll was a huge success.

"The children with hearing aids really liked them and it spurred a lot of questions from the other children too. 

Worcester News: Harry Grantham at Fairfield Day Nursery playing with a Bright Ears UK dollHarry Grantham at Fairfield Day Nursery playing with a Bright Ears UK doll

"We decided to get some more of the dolls and kind of picked as we went along.

"The children enjoy using them and looking after them.

"It creates a sense of empathy and stimulates conversation about inclusion and how everyone is different and how we can help each other. 

"It has been a massive success with the children and we have had lots of positive feedback from parents too.

"They have been talking a lot about it at home now as well, they think it's great." 

Worcester News: Miley Estefanous playing with a Bright Ears UK dollMiley Estefanous playing with a Bright Ears UK doll

Fairfield Nursery brought in the first doll in early 2022.

Nursery staff were keen to ensure that the children all felt included and represented.

Miss Walkey added: "They ranged from £35 to £55 which can seem very expensive but the learning we are getting from them is invaluable." 

Bright Ears UK is a non-profit company that makes dolls with disabilities because "we’re not going to hide away with our 'differences' we’re here, we exist, we have the right to be acknowledged and we’re proud."