A POOLE mum is appealing for help in a desperate bid to create a safe haven for her son.

Five-year-old Bailey Knapman has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and his condition sometimes means that when he gets very frustrated he runs out of the house.

Mum Fiona, of Parkstone, said it is crucial Bailey has a safe place to run around to let off steam.

She has been working hard for the last three years to try and transform her once overgrown back garden into a secure place for him to play and run around.

But because a lot of work still needs to be done to complete the project, Bailey often runs out the front door, instead of into the back garden when he gets upset.

The little boy has been off school since March as he finds it hard to cope with mainstream school. He has been awarded a place at a special needs school but does not start there full time until September.

Registered childminder Fiona, 38, said: "He is extremely unpredictable and sometimes gets very upset because there is still nowhere safe for him to play.

"Now that I have to care for him 24/7, until he returns to school, I cannot work to bring in the funds that I so desperately need to finish the project I started.

"Bailey has been awarded a place at a special needs school where he will have room to let off steam when he is upset, but when he comes home he will still feel enclosed indoors despite my best efforts.

"I know we've got parks nearby but it's still too open a space to ensure Bailey's safety."

Fiona, who is keen to finish the garden as soon as possible, he has already received a donation of woodchip from Parley-based Eco Composting, as well as some decking from friends, but is appealing for anyone who has any materials, or time, to help her.

She said she was "overwhelmed" by the generosity of the donation and the staff who gave up their spare time to lay the woodchip.

She added: "A lot of what I need is just manpower.

"I need a saw so I can cut some decking that my friends have given me to make some steps with and the bottom part I need to try and get concreted over as that's somewhere Bailey can ride his bike and scooter in an enclosed area."

She explained: "I also need some decking and concrete, but any other offers would be gratefully received."

  • Anyone who can help should call Fiona on 07961 462240.

For further information, e-mail her on fiona.knapman@ntlworld.com or visit www.addiss.co.uk