The news
The COSARAF Foundation is pleased to announce a £2,500 grant to Seeds of Hope – Integrating Neurodiversity to support a pioneering initiative enabling children with autism to take part in Umrah with the care and dignity they deserve.
The funding will contribute towards the provision of specialist SEN sensory travel kits, designed to support children with additional needs during what can be an overwhelming sensory and physical environment.
The Seeds of Hope Supported Umrah Project is a groundbreaking pilgrimage programme, specifically designed for children with neurodiverse conditions and their families. Planned for January 2027, the trip will provide a fully supported environment, including trained one-to-one volunteers to ensure each child can safely and comfortably undertake the journey.
Approximately 16 young people aged 3–12 are expected to participate, each benefiting from tailored support to help them manage the sensory, emotional and logistical challenges of travel and large crowds.
For many families of children with additional needs, attending Umrah can feel out of reach due to concerns around accessibility, safety, and understanding within busy environments. This project aims to remove those barriers by offering:
- Individualised 1:1 support for each child
- A structured and inclusive group travel experience
- Specialist resources to promote comfort, regulation and engagement
- Spiritual guidance throughout the journey
The sensory packs funded by COSARAF will play a vital role in enabling children to feel safe, supported and included, helping families to engage fully in this important spiritual experience.
This grant reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting innovative, community-led initiatives that improve quality of life and promote inclusion. Seeds of Hope, operating in partnership with Bengal Dragons Foundation, has already demonstrated strong impact in supporting neurodiverse families through inclusive programming.
Speaking following the agreement, Seeds of Hope expressed their gratitude:
“This will help so many families. We truly appreciate the generosity and support.”
The COSARAF Foundation is proud to support this meaningful initiative and looks forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on children and families, enabling them to experience Umrah with confidence, dignity and support.
