FREE Delivery on all Mainland UK Orders over £45

Shopping with Us For Christmas

Christmas and New Year Working

Our warehouse and office will be closed on Tuesday 24th December 2024 until Thursday 2nd January 2025.

During this time no orders will be despatched.

Extended Returns Policy for 2024

We want to give our customers peace of mind that all eligible products purchased between 1st November 2024 and 25th December 2024 can be returned or exchanged until 31st January 2025.

Customers simply need to return the product(s) in their original re-sellable condition together with the completed Returns Form.

Please note this excludes reporting missing or damaged products which must be reported within 3 working days, so please ensure you open and check your order when it arrives.

Contact Details

Want to Contact Us?

We are able to take your calls Monday to Friday from 09:00 to 17:00 on 01905 670500. 

Or you can email us on info@sensorydirect.com.

We look forward to hearing from you.

Please note that we close our warehouse and sales office over all UK Bank Holidays, you can leave us a message via the email above. Please bear in mind that despatch will not take place during this time so orders may take a little longer following a Bank Holiday break. 

Postal Address

Sensory Direct (UK) Ltd

Unit 11 Great Western Business Park

McKenzie Way

Worcester

WR4 9GN

Orders, Delivery and Returns

How do I place an Order?

The best way to place an order is by creating an account via the ‘My Account’ tab on our website. Creating an account is quick and easy and will allow you to track your order and collect Loyalty Points to redeem on future purchases. Alternatively, add products to the basket and you can checkout as a guest.

Payment methods:

  • Debit or Credit card.
  • Paypal.
  • Bank Transfer (Sort Code 40-47-17, Account Number 62608847).

If you are paying by Bank Transfer your order will not be sent until we have a verified receipt of payment.

Prefer to speak to a member of our Sales Team? Then give us a call on 01905 670500 to place your order over the phone. Orders can be placed between the hours of 09:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday.

Please note that we close our warehouse and sales office over all UK Bank Holidays, you can leave us a message via sales@sensorydirect.com. Please bear in mind that despatch will not take place during this time so orders may take a little longer following the Bank Holiday break. 

Do you accept Purchase Orders?

We accept Purchase Orders from Schools, NHS, Charities and Healthcare Professionals. A minimum order of £25 including VAT and postage applies.

Schools and NHS customers qualify for an instant £1000 credit account with 30 days credit.

If you require a larger credit limit, please email our Sales Team.

  • The quickest way to place a Purchase Order is via our website. Simply enter your official Purchase Order Number at the checkout and once approved your order will be released.
  • There is a minimum order of £25 including VAT and postage.
  • An invoice will be sent to you on despatch.
  • Free delivery for orders over £45 is available on online orders only for Mainland UK delivery.

Alternatively, you can send a Purchase Order by emailing your Purchase Order to sales@sensorydirect.com.

A delivery charge of £5.95 will be applied to emailed orders.

Please note that we do not accept Purchase Orders by phone.

Large custom made products (including but not exclusive to Bubble Tubes, Bubble Walls, Wooden Outdoor equipment etc.) are only available on a Pro-Forma basis and are non-refundable.   We will send a Pro-Forma invoice on receipt of your order.

How do I request a Pro-Forma Invoice or Quote?

If you would like to pay via an invoice but do not have a credit account, we can help. Simply email your order to sales@sensorydirect.com and we will send you a Pro- Forma invoice for payment.

If you would like a quote we are happy to help! Please email your requirements to sales@sensorydirect.com and our Sales Team will get back to you as soon as they can.

Please note that we close our warehouse and sales office over all UK Bank Holidays, you can leave us a message via the email above. Please bear in mind that despatch will not take place during this time so orders may take a little longer following the Bank Holiday break. 

Despatch Times and Tracking Order Status

Orders before 2pm Monday – Friday

  • Products that are in stock and ordered before 2pm, Monday to Friday, will be despatched on the same working day.
  • Orders are sent by Courier for next day Mainland UK delivery.  Very small products are sent by Royal Mail.
  • We will do our best to deliver your order on time however delivery times are approximate and we accept no liability in respect of late deliveries.  For more information on delivery times, please review the ‘Courier Estimated Delivery Times’ FAQ.
  • If your order is required urgently or by a certain date, please email info@sensorydirect.com and we will do what we can to meet your deadline.

Sensory Direct’s Handmade Products

Our Weighted Blankets, Weighted Jackets, Lap Pads and other handmade products may take 3-5 working days to be despatched if not in stock.

Despatch Delays

We will endeavour to contact customers whose orders may be affected by any despatch delays.

Please note that we close our warehouse and sales office over all UK Bank Holidays and Christmas Eve through to New Year. Despatch will not take place during this time.

Order Status

You can check the status of your order at any time by logging into your customer account via our website. A customer account will need to be created before placing an order, to use the order tracking service. Please read our ‘How do I place an Order?’ FAQ for information on how to do this.

Delivery Options
  • Delivery is FREE for online orders of £45 and above within Mainland UK (excluding Highlands, Offshore Islands and Northern Ireland).
  • Mainland UK delivery charges are £3.95 Royal Mail and £5.95 for Courier delivery for orders under £45.
  • Small products are sent by Royal Mail. Larger products are sent by Courier for Mainland UK next day delivery service. For smaller products that are in stock and ordered before 2pm, you can select and pay for DPD Mainland UK next day delivery at the checkout stage.
  • Some larger products may be delivered directly from the manufacturer.  Delivery times may vary.  Please contact us for delivery dates.
  • Please note we cannot deliver to a PO Box address.
  • We are currently unable to ship outside of the UK unless you hold a trade account with us.
  • Bubble Tubes – Delivery to Mainland UK only.

For more information on delivery times, please review the ‘Courier Estimated Delivery Times’ FAQ.

Courier Estimated Delivery Times

Our Despatch Team will arrange for all orders before 2pm to be despatched on the same day from our warehouse to our designated Courier service. Please note that the estimated delivery times listed below are provided by the Courier and we do not have any control or influence over these.

Courier Estimated Delivery Times

  • UK Mainland – Next Day
  • Northern Ireland – 2 Days
  • Scottish Islands (HS1-9 , IV40-51 , KA27-28, KW15-17, PA20, PA41-49, PA60-78, PH42-44, ZE 1-3) – 2-5 Days
  • Scottish Highlands (AB36-38, AB55-56, FK17-21, IV1-39, IV52-54, IV63, KW1-14, PA21-40, PH19-26, PH30-41, PH49-50) – 3 Days
  • Channel Islands – Next Day
  • Isle of Wight, Isle of Man, Scilly Isle – 2 Days
Do you ship Internationally?

Yes we are able to deliver outside of the UK to existing trade customers. Please contact our Sales Team to discuss your order requirements.

Please take a look at our Applying for Resellers Account for more details.

Do you accept Returns?

Returns Policy

We want you to be 100% happy with your purchase, but if you find that the product is not suitable you must return the product to us within 30 days of receipt for a refund or exchange of the same or similar. There are some exemptions to this, please see below with regards to Sensory Direct’s Weighted Blankets.

Returns of a sales product must be within 14 days of receipt.

To receive a refund or exchange, products must be returned unused, in their original packaging and with all original documentation. It is not possible for us to make a refund or exchange if the products returned are not in perfect condition or it is obvious to us that the products have been used.

Is there anything that cannot be returned?

Yes. We have a small number of products that due to hygiene reasons are not eligible for returns if any of their packaging has been opened. These are:

  • All Chewbuddy™ products and all other branded Sensory Chews and Bangles.
  • All Putty*/Sand/PlayFoam (*unless the inner protective bag remains unopened).
  • Ear Defenders and High Fidelity Ear Plugs (Silicone Sensory Ear Plugs are non-returnable due to the nature of their packaging).

Products purchased by trade customers and distributors may not be returned unless the products are faulty or sent in error.

Custom Made Products

Products that are custom made to order cannot be returned and are non-refundable.   This includes large Bubble Tubes (over £100 in value), Bubble Walls, LED Tubes, Large Soft Play and Wooden Outdoor Play.

Sensory Direct’s Weighted Blankets

Weighted Blankets that have been opened and used will be subject to a £40 fee (+ VAT where applicable) which will be deducted from your refund. Refunds cannot be given for Weighted Blankets after 60 days from the date of receipt or where they are returned dirty, soiled or damaged. Refunds on Weighted Blankets are at the discretion of Sensory Direct and we reserve the right to refuse refunds.

Our Weighted Blankets and Lap Pads carry a ‘Lifetime Workmanship Guarantee’. If your Weighted Blanket or Lap Pad develops a fault, please call our friendly Customer Services Team on 01905 670500, Monday to Friday -09:00 – 17:00, and they will happily arrange a repair or replacement.

Returns Process

Please ensure you complete a RETURNS FORM* with your Purchase Order Reference ( e.g. SO048123 – you will find this on your paperwork or through our sales office) when sending back your products . You will find the Returns Form with your order.   Please email info@sensorydirect.com if you need a replacement form or cannot find your reference number.  *Without a completed Returns Form it is likely to delay your refund.

Please allow up to 14 working days from when we received your returns for the refund to appear in your account.

What is the cost of returning a Product?

Unless the products are faulty or sent in error you are responsible for the cost of returning the products to us. We recommend you use Recorded Delivery and obtain insurance, as proof of posting is not proof of receipt. Where products are not faulty or not sent in error only the cost of the products excluding postage and packing will be refunded. For further information, please contact our sales office who will be able to advise.

Faulty Products

Please contact our friendly Customer Services Team either by phone on 01905 670500 or by emailing info@sensorydirect.com where we can advise you on our process.

Postal Address: Sensory Direct (UK) Ltd, Unit 11 Great Western Business Park, McKenzie Way, Worcester, WR4 9GN.

Contact Number: 01905 670500

Email: info@sensorydirect.com

Working Hours: Monday to Friday – 09:00 – 17:00

How long does my Refund take to be processed?

Please allow 14 working days from when we receive your returns for the refund to appear in your account.

On receipt of your Order - Damaged or Missing Products

We advise that on receipt of your order you should open all packages and thoroughly check for missing or damaged products as soon as possible.

If your order arrives and products are missing or damaged, we are very sorry. To help us resolve your problem as soon as possible you must report any missing or damaged products within 3 days of the delivery. The best way to do this is by calling our friendly Customer Services Team on 01905 670500, during the hours of 09:00 – 17:00 – Monday to Friday.

If we are not notified of missing or damaged products within 3 days we are unable to claim from the carrier and we will be unable to refund or replace the missing or damaged products. If the packaging appears damaged and you do not have time to check the products you should sign the carrier’s paperwork and add the word “Damaged”.

I’ve not received my Order - What do I do?

If you have not received your order we understand how frustrating this can be, but rest assured we will do our best to resolve the issue for you. To help us resolve your problem as soon as possible you must report the missing delivery within 7 days of notification of despatch. The best way to do this is by calling our friendly Customer Services Team on 01905 670500, during the hours of 09:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday.

Faulty Products

If your product becomes faulty please contact our friendly Customer Services Team either by phone on 01905 670500 or by emailing info@sensorydirect.com where we can advise you on our process.

 

Become a Sensory Direct Member and start collecting your Rewards Scheme Points

What is the Rewards Scheme?

The Rewards Scheme allows members to collect points on purchases online. Each point has a cash equivalent (non-transferable) and you can spend these points on future purchases with us.

How do I join the Rewards Scheme?

To join the Rewards Scheme you need to become a member. This is really quick and simple to do – all you need to do is to create an account on our website.

  1. Simply click ‘My Account on the Homepage then ‘Create your Account’ under New Customers.
  2. Enter your name and email address and create a password.
  3. Click ‘Create your Account’ and you’re all set to go.
  4. Don’t forget to tick ‘Yes’ to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news, promotions, bonus points offers and resources!
Reward Scheme Points

Find out more about our Rewards Scheme points in our full Membership & Reward Scheme page.

Subscribing and Unsubscribing

How do I Subscribe?

It is easy to subscribe.  Simply scroll to the bottom of the Homepage and under ‘Don’t miss out ..‘ enter your email address in the box and click the subscribe button.

You will receive money-off vouchers, exclusive offers and the latest information from Sensory Direct by email.

If you wish to unsubscribe at anytime, please see our ‘How do I Unsubscribe?’ FAQ.

How do I Unsubscribe?

You can unsubscribe at any time in the following ways:

  • Click the unsubscribe link contained at the bottom of any marketing email we send to you and following the instructions which appear in your browser once you have clicked on that link.
  • Sending an SMS message containing only the words “OPT OUT” in reply to any marketing communication we send by text message; or
  • Sending an email to info@sensorydirect.com asking that we stop sending you marketing communications or by including the words “OPT OUT”.

Weighted Products

How do Weighted Blankets work?

Weighted Blankets apply a weight and deep touch pressure that children, teenagers and adults with sensory integration issues find soothing and calming. The weight in the blankets stimulates the touch receptors in the muscle joints and ligaments which benefit those with a poor proprioceptive sense (sense of body position). The weight provides a grounding effect giving the individual an improved awareness of their body, which in turn helps relaxation and sleep.

See our free resources on our Downloads page for more details on Weighted Therapy and our Sensory products.

What are the Weighted Blankets made from?

Our Weighted Blankets are handmade in the UK from a range of high quality materials, including strong durable polycotton and soft tactile plain and dimpled fleece. In addition, we manufacture a range of fire retardant Weighted Blankets carrying the BS5852 marking.  The weight within the blankets is provided by finest grade plastic pellets and is compliant to CE certification standards.

Our Classic range of Weighted Blankets is unique in that the weights are enclosed in an inner lining for additional safety and comfort.

Our handmade polycotton and fire retardant Weighted Blankets are also registered as a Class 1 Medical Device with the Medicines & Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).  This is a Government agency responsible for standards of safety, quality and performance of medicines and healthcare products sold in the UK.

How do I choose the correct weight for my Weighted Blanket?

When buying a Weighted Blanket it’s important to remember that the weight of the blanket should be in proportion to the bodyweight of the individual using it.

The current recommendation, verified by the Royal College of Occupational Therapists, is that the Weighted Blanket should not exceed 10% of the users bodyweight.

For further assistance please see our Weight Guide available on our Downloads page.

 

See our Blog on "What Is A Weighted Blanket And How To Pick One?"
See our Blog on "Benefits of Weighted Blankets"
What type of Weighted Blanket should I choose?

We make a variety of different types, sizes and weights of blankets that we have developed over the last 15 years to cater for our diverse range of customers. Use the details below to help you chose the Weighted Blanket that best fits your needs:

Adjustable Weighted Blanket

The Large Adjustable and Adjustable Weighted Blankets have removable weights allowing the weight to be adjusted according to the individual.  This type of Weighted Blanket is perfect for using on a bed and best used inside a duvet cover of your choice.

Classic and Midi Weighted Blankets

The Sensory Direct Classic and Midi Weighted Blankets have the weights sewn into individual cells in the blanket.  They can be used on a bed (on top of existing bedding) or are perfect for draping across the shoulders or wrapping around the body for a calming hug effect. The Midi ranges of Weighted Blankets are smaller and more compact making them ideal for use on a sofa or in a sensory room.

Can’t see a colour or pattern to suit your needs?

All of our Weighted Blankets are handmade at our site in Worcester, and come with a choice of colours and patterns. However, if you are after something specific, please give our friendly Customer Services Team a call on 01905 670500 and they will be happy to help you get the perfect Weighted Blanket. Our opening hours are 09:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday.

See our free resources on our Downloads page for more details on Weighted Therapy and our Sensory products.

How do I know if a Weighted Blanket will work?

The simple answer is that you won´t really know until you´ve tried one. One way of testing is to try placing heavy coats or extra duvets on top of your child when they go to bed to see if they like the extra weight (although don´t try this in warm weather as they will simply get too hot). You could also try putting them to bed in a mummy style sleeping bag and tuck them into bed tightly. Some children crave this extra weight and pressure and if your child likes it then chances are that a Weighted Blanket will work for you.

Are the Weighted Blankets washable?

Yes – all of our UK handmade Weighted Blankets can be machine washed.  Washing instructions are sent with each Weighted Blanket.

Are Weighted Blankets safe?

Absolutely!  When used as directed and with common sense Weighted Blankets are a completely safe and effective tool to help with sensory integration. You should always bear in mind the generally accepted weight guidelines and we would not recommend exceeding this unless directed by your healthcare professional. The Weighted Blanket should never be used to restrain a child and should not cover the face.

For further assistance please see our Weighted Products Guide for further details, available on our Downloads page.

Can a Weighted Blanket be kept on the bed all night?

Opinion seems to differ on this question.  Occupational Therapists recommend that a Weighted Blanket is used under adult supervision at all times.  Some Occupational Therapists however recommend that the Weighted Blanket is removed once the child has gone to sleep.   This is sound advice for younger children who cannot self-remove. You should talk to your Occupational Therapist for guidance.

 

 

How do Weighted Jackets work?

The deep pressure provided by Weighted Jackets has a “calming and organising” effect on the body´s proprioceptive system. They are commonly recommended by Occupational Therapists for use in the classroom to increase attention span and reduce hyperactivity often seen in children and teenagers with autism, ADHD, sensory and learning difficulties. The weight provided by a Weighted Jacket reduces self-stimulatory behaviour such as chewing, hand flapping and twirling which in turn enables the wearer to concentrate on the task in hand.

For further assistance please see our Weighted Products Guide available on our Downloads page.

Where is the weight in the Weighted Jacket applied to?

Our Weighted Jackets provide weight primarily to the shoulder area which is comfortable and very effective. Additional weights can be added to the waist area as required. All weights are removable so the weight of the jacket can be optimized and tailored to the needs of the individual.  This also allows easy washing of the jacket.

All of our Weighted Jackets are supplied with a set of weights. Additional weights can be purchased separately if required.

How long should you wear a Weighted Jacket?

A Weighted Jacket should be worn for no longer than 20 to 30 minutes at a time and should not be worn during activities such as running, jumping or any type of strenuous play. We recommend that a gap of at least 2 to 3 hours should be allowed between uses; however we strongly recommend that an Occupational Therapist or other suitably qualified professional is consulted when devising a usage plan for an individual.

Are the Weighted Jackets washable?

Yes. Once the weights are removed the Weighted Jackets can be machine washed. Weights can be wiped with a damp cloth if necessary. Washing instructions are sent with each Weighted Jacket.

What other Weighted and Compression Products may work?

We manufacture a range of weighted and compression products such as Lap Pads to help sitting at the table, Wrist Weights to help writing and other motor skills.

In addition you may be interested in items such as Weighted Hoodies, Weighted Shoulder Wraps, Caps, Compression Sheets, Compression Vests, Weighted Animals and many more.

We are always working on new ideas and encourage customers to let us know of any other items you feel may help.

For further assistance please see our Sensory Product Guides available on our Downloads page.

Sensory Chews and Therapy Balls

How do I choose the correct Sensory Chew and are they safe?

Sensory Direct have a complete range of Sensory Chews suitable for children and adults from mild to aggressive chewers. We understand that there is no ‘one-fits-all’ when it comes to Sensory Chews so we offer a complete range of varying strengths, colours, shapes and even some that provide additional sensory feedback – there’s something for everyone.

To choose the correct Sensory Chew, we recommend the following steps:

  1. Consider the chewing habits of the individual. Some of our Sensory Chews are finished in a softer material which wouldn’t be suitable for an aggressive chewer.
  2. Does the individual respond better to certain textures? We have a range of Sensory Chews with different finishes such as smooth, dimpled or ridged – great for additional Sensory feedback.
  3. Weight is also an important consideration – Some of our Sensory Chews can be worn on the wrist, and when doubled up, provide a comforting weight to the individual.
  4. Colour – We have a range of bright primary colours to choose from.
  5. Age – Some of our Sensory Chews are discreet and more appropriate for young adults or those wanting to wear something more subtle.
  6. Consider where the Sensory Chew will be worn – We have Sensory Chews suitable for wearing on a safety lanyard around the neck or on a wrist.

Safety is of great important to us, so all our Chewbuddy™ Sensory Chews are:

  • Tested for compliance with all relevant safety standards (including phthalates and BPA).
  • Made from medical grade materials – NO phthalates, PVC, BPA or Latex (so safe to chew).
  • CE marked (quality assurance).
  • Can be sterilised or cleaned by popping in the dishwasher.
  • Provided with a detachable safety lanyard so the Sensory Chew can be worn around the neck.

We recommend that Sensory Chews are used under adult supervision.

If you would like to read more about our range of Sensory Chews please read our Blog  “Chewbuddy™ – Which one will you choose?” Prefer to speak to someone? Then why not call our friendly Customer Services Team on 01905 670500, Monday to Friday – 09:00 – 17:00.

See our Blog on "Chewbuddy™ - Which one will you choose?"
What size Therapy Ball do I buy?

As a quick guide before buying a Therapy Ball, measure the distance from the user’s armpit to the middle finger tip and match this measurement to the height of the Therapy Ball (within 5cm).

For more help – download our Therapy Ball Guidelines.

VAT Relief

Which Products are eligible for VAT relief?

Some of the products we sell qualify for VAT relief, which means they can be sold without VAT. Any product that is eligible for VAT relief is marked with a green ‘Eligible for VAT relief‘ badge. You can find this badge next to the price on the individual products page. In addition to this, when searching for products, the VAT exception price will be displayed in green underneath any eligible product.

VAT is chargeable on all delivery charges.

Who can claim for VAT relief?

If you have a disability or a chronic medical condition you can claim VAT relief on certain eligible products. The products must be purchased for personal or domestic use only. You can also claim VAT relief on behalf of a child or person you look after, if you are a parent or carer. Charities can also qualify for VAT relief as long as the above conditions are met.

If you would like to understand more about who can claim for VAT Relief please click here.

What do I do at checkout if I qualify for VAT relief?

If you qualify for VAT relief, it’s really easy to apply the discount at checkout. Simply add your desired products to your basket and checkout. If any of the products you have selected are eligible for VAT relief, the VAT exempt page will appear. It is on this screen that you must tick the ‘Yes’ option next to ‘VAT Exemption Declaration’.

Please note – if the VAT exemption page does not load at this stage, please refer back to the products you have ordered as they may not be VAT exempt. Once you have selected ‘Yes’ VAT will be automatically deducted from any relevant products in your basket.

VAT is chargeable on all deliveries.

Resources

Where can I find Product Guides and Free Resources?

Please refer to our free Downloads and Guides section where you will find a number of free resources to aid your buying. If you can’t find what you are looking for, no problem, just give our friendly Customer Services Team a call on 01905 670500, during the hours of 09:00 – 17:00, Monday to Friday. Or drop us an email at info@sensorydirect.com.

Take a look at our free resources here.

Download our Catalogue here.

Returns Form

Please ensure you complete a RETURNS FORM* when sending back your products – this is sent with your order.   Please use the link to print off a replacement form, or alternatively please email info@sensorydirect.com if you need a replacement. *Without a completed form your refund may be delayed.

Please see our FAQ “Do you accept Returns?” for our returns policy details.