Action for Family Carers Contributes to Oi Chelmsford! Exhibition
A brand-new family-friendly exhibition has opened at Chelmsford Museum, celebrating the works of local bestselling children’s author Kes Gray and Action for Family Carers is proud to have played a part in making it accessible for all.
A local story
Oi Chelmsford! explores the imagination and creativity behind Kes Gray’s much-loved stories including favourites such as Oi Frog! and The Trouble with Daisy, through interactive exhibits, toys and illustrations.
Born and raised in Chelmsford during the 1960s and ‘70s, Kes Gray has published more than 100 books enjoyed by children around the world. His playful writing style and humour are inspired by his own childhood memories of growing up in Chelmsford and visitors will spot plenty of local references throughout the exhibition.
Making space for every family
We’re delighted that Action for Family Carers was invited to collaborate with the museum during the design phase of the exhibition. Working closely with local families of children with Special Educational Needs (SEN), we helped ensure that the exhibition’s interactive elements are welcoming, inclusive, and engaging for all visitors.
Our input focused on creating positive sensory experiences and increasing accessibility for SEN families – helping to ensure every child, whatever their needs, can enjoy the fun, imagination, and laughter that Kes Gray’s books inspire.
This work builds upon the museum’s ongoing commitment to inclusion and provides a model for how local partnerships can make cultural experiences more accessible for all.
A collaboration that makes a difference
We’re proud to have supported this initiative, representing the voices and experiences of families we work with every day across Essex.
Partnerships like this show what’s possible when organisations come together to create inclusive, joyful experiences that celebrate creativity and community.
🩷 We’d like to thank Chelmsford Museum for including us in this wonderful project and the families who shared their insights to help make the exhibition accessible to all.
The exhibition is on from now until 21 June 2026: Oi Chelmsford! Kes Gray: Chelmsford Born and Read
