UK-based video games charity SpecialEffect has opened its first Video Games Visitor Centre.

The UK-based charity SpecialEffect seeks to provide disabled children with the access to video games and other forms of technology that will help them develop as well as enjoy playing. They already have a Game Base that informs visitors about how accessible games are.

The charity works alongside hospitals, schools and other institutions and tours around the country spreading knowledge and providing children the opportunity to enjoy games. Today they opened their first Video Games Visitor Centre in Witney, West Oxfordshire, to act as a permanent location for individuals with disabilities to try out new technologies and get advice about what would best suit them. The centre will provide access to new technologies that are designed to help, as well video games to enjoy.

"The SpecialEffect Charity already helps a wide range of people with disabilities to discover how to use specialist technology through its website, roadshows, working with hospitals and home visits. The only thing missing was a central hub for people to visit. The new centre offers them the opportunity to arrange to try out a range of cutting edge games and leisure software and hardware, with the advice and support of specialist professionals."

- Dr Mick Donegan, SpecialEffect's Director.

"Following my rugby injury, I was totally paralysed. SpecialEffect's support adapted a computer that I could operate just by moving my head. This not only had a massive positive impact on my leisure time but I also believe it helped to build up my neck muscles, too. Like me, many other people with disabilities are interested to find out about the benefits of games and leisure technology for socialisation, rehabilitation and, of course, fun. Now they drop into a friendly centre and can see what it can do for them."

- Matt Hampson, Patron of SpecialEffect.