Upcoming Events
For parents / carers of children who are awaiting a referral to the neurodevelopmental diagnostic team, on the diagnostic pathway or post diagnosis of autism.
Children must be living in North Tyneside.
We have the following dates available:
Nunsmoor Centre, Studley Terrace, NE4 5AH
3rd Sept, 1st Oct, 5th Nov and 3rd Dec 2025
7th Jan, 4th Feb, 4th Mar, 1st Apr 2026
Galafield Centre, Newbiggin Ln, NE5 1LZ
10th Sept, 8th Oct, 12th Nov and 10th Dec 2025
14th Jan, 11th Feb, 11th Mar, 8th Apr 2026
Byker Sands, 19 Raby Cross, NE6 2FF
17th Sept, 15th Oct and 19th Nov 2025
21st Jan, 18th Feb, 18th Mar, 15th Apr 2026
Fawdon Childrens, Centre, Cairns Way, NE3 2SN
24th Sept, 22nd Oct and 26th Nov
28th Jan, 25th Feb, 25th Mar, 22nd Apr
Charlton Street Hub, Charlton Street, NE15 8RN
21st Jan, 18th Feb, 18th Mar, 15th Apr
The Treehouse Early, Years Centre, Brunel Terrace, NE4 7NL
28th Jan, 25th Feb, 25th Mar, 22nd Apr
Supporting your autistic child workshop
The workshop will cover:
- worries and action planning
- common misconceptions
- differences in autistic children
- practical strategies to use in everyday life
These sessions will run 10-12 and must be pre-booked.
One to one appointments
These appointments are for families that have questions or would like to discuss any issues in confidence.
These appointments are available between 9-10 and 12.30-4 and must be pre-booked.
To book please contact Rebecca Weatherstone on 0191 410 9974 or rebecca.weatherstone@ne-as.org.uk
You’re invited to join us for a day of connection, learning, and great conversation with the Inclusive Club Network in Birmingham.
We’re bringing together clubs, coaches, and volunteers from across the city to explore how we can embed inclusion in community sport.
The event will feature:
- Upskilling Workshops – short taster workshops to get clubs thinking about different inclusive practices and easy wins
- Lived Experience Panel Discussion – hear their story and ask them about their journey
- Networking with other community clubs in Birmingham!
Whether you’re just starting out or building on existing work, this event is designed to support and inspire you.
There will be food, drinks, and plenty of time to chat and ask questions.
🗓️Wednesday 23 September
🕕Time: 10:00am – 15:00pm
📍Location: Sense, Touchbase Pears, Bristol Road, Selly Oak, B29 6NA
For more information and to book: Inclusive Club Network Birmingham
A relaxed, welcoming space for all parent carers, whether you’re newly registered, thinking about joining Grace House, or have been with us for a while.
Learn more about our programmes and support
Meet other parent carers
Chat with Vicki and Wendy from our team
Every fortnight on Wednesday
9.30am – 11.30am
Registration is required.
Book here: https://bookwhen.com/gracehouse#focus=ev-swlne-20260417180000
📝 About the Session
- What we will be doing: Working with schools can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you’re trying to make sure your young person’s needs are understood and supported. This workshop focuses on preparing yourself for productive communication with teachers and staff. We will explore how to prepare for meetings so you feel confident, what information is most useful to share, and ideas on how to express concerns when feeling under-supported. You will be introduced to practical tools such as a meeting preparation checklist and ready-to-use communication templates for emails and conversations, alongside strategies for ongoing communication that work for your family.
- What to expect (The Vibe): An interactive, collaborative workshop format designed to build confidence in school communications. The course runs from 10:00am – 12:00pm, followed by lunch and dedicated time for your questions. Each in-person course has a maximum of 15 attendees.
- Who it’s for: This session is specifically for parents and carers navigating school communications for their young people. We apologise, but these courses are not suitable for children and there is no childcare available. This is a chance for you to learn practical tools, build confidence, and chat with people who get it!
- Date & Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm (Plus lunch and questions afterwards)
🎤 About Our Presenter / Guest Speaker
Who is joining us: Laura (Laura ND Nurse)- What they will be sharing: Practical ways to prepare for school meetings, express concerns effectively, and structure ongoing communication with staff using checklists and communication templates.
- About the Presenter: Laura is Autistic/PDA and ADHD herself. She is a Nurse, Sleep Consultant, Advocate, and a parent to two neurodiverse children—so she is living the life and talking the talk. While her speciality is supporting Autistic/ADHD people, her teaching is created in a way that can be helpful for all families as the foundations centre around mental health, strengthening family relationships, and self-advocacy.
- Website / Further Info: www.laurahellfeld.co.uk
🤝 Funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum
Our Funding Partners: We’re proud to share that these Laura ND Nurse workshops have been fully funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum, ensuring parents and carers can access this valuable, identity-affirming support. Their commitment helps make these sessions inclusive and accessible for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.
🚗 Getting There & Arrival
- Parking Details: There is plenty of parking available around the back of the building (including designated Blue Badge spaces) as well as additional street parking on the roads surrounding the venue.
- Finding the Little Hiccups Group: Look out for the Little Hiccups signs and team members on arrival to direct you straight to our workshop space.
🚶 The Venue Space & Seating
- Room Layout & Lifts: The venue and course space are entirely on one level (ground floor).
- Access Requirements: Please do let us know if you have any specific access requirements so we can ensure you are fully accommodated.
🚽 Toilets & Accessibility
- Standard Accessible Toilet: Yes, accessible disabled toilets are available on-site.
- Changing Places Toilet: Yes, this venue features a full Changing Places toilet facility.
🍰 Atmosphere, Food & Drinks
- Lighting & Noise Levels: The workshop is limited to a maximum of 15 attendees to maintain a comfortable, relaxed, and conversational environment.
- Food & Refreshments: Lunch will be provided directly after the workshop session. When booking your ticket, please ensure you let us know of any dietary requirements you may have.
⛑️ Safety & Venue Details
- Little Hiccups Staff: As always, our staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure everyone feels welcome. If you are nervous about coming alone, drop us a message beforehand and we will make sure someone meets you at the door!
🎟️ How to Book
Spaces are limited to a maximum of 15 attendees so we can keep the workshop size relaxed and comfortable. Please book your spot below:
Important Booking Information:
Bookings close exactly one week before the event to allow for catering and session planning. Please note that our events are heavily subsidised by Little Hiccups to support our community. Because the charity covers the remaining costs based on our final confirmed numbers (such as venue hire, lunch, refreshments, and presenter fees), we kindly ask that you let us know if your plans change. If you can no longer make it, please cancel your places by emailing events@littlehiccups.co.uk so we can reallocate the spots and prevent charity funds from being lost.
If you have any questions, dietary requirements, or are unsure about attending for the first time, please reach out to us at
events@littlehiccups.co.uk. We’d love to have you join us!
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/educational-informative/
Working with schools can sometimes feel daunting, especially when you’re trying to make sure your young person’s needs are understood and supported. This time together will focus on preparing yourself for productive communication with teachers and staff. We’ll explore how to get ready for meetings so you feel confident, what information is most useful to share, and ideas on how to express concerns when you are possibly feeling under-supported. Along the way, you’ll be introduced to practical tools such as a meeting preparation checklist and ready-to-use communication templates to help you structure emails and conversations with staff. We’ll also look at strategies for keeping communication ongoing and finding approaches that work for your family and your young person.
Each in-person course will have a max of 15 attendees and will be in a Workshop format.
The course will run 10am-12pm and there will be lunch provided afterwards as well as time for questions for the in-person course. When booking, please do let me know of any dietary requirements. Bookings close a week before the event to allow planning.
We apologise – but these courses are not suitable for children and there is no childcare available.
Accessibility
– The ground is all one level
– There are disabled toilets and a Changing Place
– There is plenty of parking around the back of the building (including Blue Badge spaces) and more on the streets around the building.
Please do let us know if you have an access requirements.
Meet your Instructor
Laura is Autistic/PDA and ADHD herself. She is a Nurse and Sleep Consultant, Advocate, and also a parent to two Neurodiverse children. So she is living the life and talking the talk. Her speciality is support of Autistic/ADHD people, but her teaching is created in way that can be helpful for all families as the foundations are around mental health, strengthening family relationships and self-advocacy.
Website: www.laurahellfeld.co.uk
Funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum
We’re proud to share that these Laura ND Nurse workshops have been fully funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum, ensuring parents and carers can access this valuable, identity-affirming support at no cost. Their commitment helps make these sessions inclusive and accessible for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/educational-informative/
Description: Join us for a stimulating and supportive Baby Sensory session. These classes are designed to engage your baby’s senses through light, sound, and texture, providing a wonderful bonding experience for you both. It is also a brilliant opportunity to meet other neonatal parents in a relaxed setting.
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When: Every Wednesday
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Time: 11:45 am – 12:30 pm
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Location: Lovabelle, Visage House, South Shields
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Cost: Free for eligible families
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Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/
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Description: Inclusive yoga sessions designed specifically for parent-carers to help manage stress and physical health.
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Date/Time: Mondays 11am-12pm & Wednesdays 1:15pm-2:15pm.
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Cost: £2 per session.
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Location: Grace House, Bardolph Drive, Sunderland, SR5 2DE.
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Contact: 0191 435 2088 | info@gracehouse.co.uk
Introduction
WheelPower is the national charity for wheelchair sport and its our mission to support disabled people of all ages to lead healthier and more active lives through movement, activity and sport.
We understand that there are many people in our community working with people with physical disabilities, and this short online course is here to give you the knowledge and confidence in your own organisations. Time is precious which is why we have re-engineered this course content to make the very best of your limited time. Leave confident to adapt any session for wheelchair users
Course Insights from Ella Elsender
Hear from Ella Elsender, WheelPower’s Partnership & Workforce Development Manager, as she explains the thinking behind this course and shares practical insight into creating more inclusive sport and physical activity opportunities.
Upcoming Dates
- Thursday 30 July 2026 0930 – 11:30 (with Louise Hunt-Skelley)
- Thursday 24 September 2026 – 0930 – 1130 (with Pete Edwards)
Course Format
Will now take place in two parts. All attendees will be sent the link to the Online Training module upon signing up to the course and will be asked to complete this prior to attending the Tutor Led element.
- Part 1: Self-Guided Learning Module (45–60 minutes)
This module helps learners understand how to include people with spinal cord injuries and other physical impairments in sport and activity. It explores barriers and opportunities to participation, appropriate language, and practical off-court considerations to make activities more accessible and inclusive. - Part 2: Tutor-Led Online Course via Zoom (Approx. 2 hours)
This interactive session includes breakout discussions and insights from our tutor’s lived experience. You’ll explore inclusive sports and adaptable activities for people with physical disabilities. The course aims to build your confidence in supporting disabled people to access and enjoy sport and activity.
Who is the course suitable for?
If you are a teacher, coach, sports student, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist striving to adapt your sports session for wheelchair participants, then this training is for you.
Future Opportunities
This course will enable you to support WheelPower in the delivery of programmes and events as well as other governing bodies, organisations and clubs that provide opportunities for disabled people to participate in wheelchair sport and physical activity.
After the course each participant will be provided with further support from WheelPower Sports Team should you have additional questions, or need us to help you make contact with organisations local to you.
Cost
This training course costs us £500 to organise. We kindly ask for a donation to help cover these costs. Your support will enable us to continue providing access to sport for people with physical disabilities.
Contact
If you have any questions about this course please contact the team via sport@wheelpower.org.uk
Trusted by organisations across healthcare, education and sport
Our course has been delivered to professionals from a wide range of organisations committed to improving opportunities for wheelchair users to take part in sport and physical activity.
Training for Colleges/Universities and Groups
As well as the public course WheelPower also works with teachers, students, coaches and employees to provide closed online courses for larger groups. To book an exclusive course for your college, university or group please email sport@wheelpower.org.uk
Come along for a magical journey through sound, light and imagination in our free-flow open play session! Families are warmly invited to spend time exploring three unique sensory spaces designed to ignite wonder and relaxation:
• 🌧️ Rainforest Sensory Room – Immerse yourselves in the sights and sounds of the rainforest, where misty lighting, gentle animal calls, and tactile surprises bring nature to life.
• 🌌 Space Sensory Room – Blast off into an interstellar experience! Glide among glowing stars, soft projections and cosmic calm in this soothing, space-themed escape.
• 🎵 Music Room – Get playful with rhythm and melody in an inclusive space filled with instruments, musical toys, and joyful tunes for all ages and abilities.
🕒 Drop in, explore at your own pace, and connect with other families in a welcoming environment. Whether you’re seeking stimulation, tranquility or shared smiles, each room offers something a little different and every child is free to discover in their own way.
📍 Perfect for families of children with additional needs. Our team is here to ensure the experience is accessible, comforting and full of delight.
We also have a fully accessible changing area with hoist and full size medical bed.
Huge thanks to Baily Thomas Foundation for sponsoring these sessions.
This relaxed and supportive session combines art, colours, textures and writing to help you explore your thoughts, reflect on your experiences, and express yourself in a creative way.
No artistic experience needed just come along and enjoy the process.
FREE for parent carers
Starting Wednesday 22nd April
10am – 12 noon
Weekly sessions (excluding school holidays)
A lovely opportunity to relax, connect with others, and boost your mental wellbeing through creativity.
Spaces are limited!
Book Now: https://bookwhen.com/gracehouse#focus=ev-swlne-20260417180000
📍 Venue: Sensory World, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF13 1NB
📅 Day: Every Thursday
🕒 Time: 10:30 AM – 2:00 PM
What’s Included?
🎨 Creative Activities:
- Gluing
- Painting
- Mosaic
- Crafts (£4.00 per person)
🍽 Delicious Lunch:
- 2-course meal for just £5 per person
Why Join Us?
This is a welcoming space for adults with learning difficulties to enjoy creativity, social connection, and a hearty meal in a supportive environment.
Booking Details
📞 Call: 07801 065589
✅ Pre-booking is essential to secure your spot!
📍 Venue: Sensory World Café, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF13 1NB
📅 Day: Every Thursday
🕚 Time: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Why Join Us?
Don’t feel isolated. Don’t be alone.
Our Luncheon Club is a warm, friendly space where you can enjoy good food and great company.
What’s Included?
🍽 Two-course meal for just £5
Relax, chat, and share a meal in a welcoming environment.
Who Can Come?
✅ Everyone is welcome!
Perfect for anyone looking for social connection and a delicious lunch.
Booking Details
No need to book in advance – just come along!
For more information, contact Sensory World Café.
The Toby Henderson Trust is hosting a brand new webinar exploring Tic Disorders and Tourette Syndrome. Hosted by Clinical Lead and Practitioner Psychologist Toni Brown, this session aims to dispel common myths, share reliable information, and offer support for anyone navigating a confirmed diagnosis or exploring potential symptoms.
✨ Details:
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When: Thursday 24th September 2026 | 12:30pm – 2:00pm
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Where: Online via Zoom
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Who it’s for: Individuals, parents, and carers looking for information and support around tic disorders and Tourette Syndrome
🎟️ To book your place:
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Website: www.ttht.co.uk
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Email: admin@ttht.co.uk
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Phone: 0300 365 3055
Description: A fun and rhythmic session for you and your little one! Baby Bounce uses songs, rhymes, and gentle movement to support early language development and physical coordination. It’s a great way to boost your baby’s confidence while chatting with other parents who have had similar neonatal journeys.
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When: Every Thursday
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Time: 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm
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Location: The Word, South Shields
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Cost: Free for eligible families
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Eligibility: Open exclusively to families who have spent time on a neonatal unit in the North East and/or Transitional Care.
How to Book: https://www.tinylives.org.uk/meet-chat-learn/
Kid’s Fitness is a great way to try out lots of different sports and games. The group is led by specialist fitness instructors who are able to safely coach children of all abilities and levels of need.
Children will enjoy getting fitter as they try out a range of activities, including Boccia, dance and team games.
All sessions are for children aged 5-17 years and are £4 per session, with spaces booked for the term and paid monthly. A free taster session is offered for all activities.
If interested, please email: childrensprojects@sheffieldmencap.org.uk or call 0114 2767757
Gateway youth club is suitable for children with a mild learning disability and/or autism and their siblings.
The wide range of activities on offer are planned collaboratively with members, including sports, games, art and crafts, films, quizzes and cooking. There are regular themed activities too, such as Halloween and Christmas parties, Easter Egg hunts and sports-themed days. Children may also choose to just relax and enjoy spending time with other young people. Gateway youth club is a great place to meet new friends and develop social skills.
All sessions are for children aged 5-17 years and are £4 per session, with spaces booked for the term and paid monthly. A free taster session is offered for all activities.
If interested, please email: childrensprojects@sheffieldmencap.org.uk or call 0114 2767757
📝 About the Session
- What we will be doing: Join us for a FREE unique evening exploring the beautiful surroundings of Swillington Woods with The Green Moon. We’ll take part in a range of engaging activities, while enjoying the peaceful woodland setting and connecting with other like-minded people.
- What to expect (The Vibe): This relaxed evening is designed for male carers to take some time for themselves, connect with others in a similar role, and enjoy the outdoors. Alongside a range of woodland activities, there will be plenty of opportunity to chat, relax, and enjoy delicious food cooked over the fire in a friendly and supportive environment.
- Who it’s for: Strictly for male carers of children with additional needs or disabilities. Over 18’s only.
- Date & Time: Thursday 24th September from 6pm to 8pm
🚗 Getting There & Arrival
- Venue Address: The Green Moon, Coach Rd, Swillington, Leeds, LS26 8QA
- Venue Website: This Green Moon – There’s wonder in those woods.
- Parking Details: There is parking on site. It is next to the entrance to the Green Moon, on a grassy area. We will be the only group using the site so there will be plenty of parking.
- Finding the Little Hiccups Group: Noel will be at the entrance to greet everyone.
- Entrance & Access: For more information about the access, please follow this link – FAQ’s – This Green Moon. The Green Moon is accessed via a small road, follow the signs for The Green Moon.
🚶 The Venue Space & Seating
- The Woods: This is an amazing space! Due to the type of location, there is uneven ground throughout the venue but this is minimised as much as possible. There are lots of shaded areas. We will be using a fire pit during the session. Please let us know if you have any questions about the woods.
- Seating & Comfort: There are numerous seats throughout the venue, with a rustic feel.
🚽 Toilets & Accessibility
- Standard Toilet: There are a small number of toilets on site.
- Changing Places Toilet: No changing places on site. Please let us know if this is something you will need.
🍰 Atmosphere, Food & Drinks
- Lighting & Noise Levels: Due to the type of event, there will be little background noise, with a calming atmosphere.
- Food & Refreshments: There will be food and drinks throughout the evening but please bring any specific items you would like (NO ALCOHOL ALLOWED). Please ensure you let us know of any dietary or allergy requirements.
⛑️ Safety & Venue Details
- Little Hiccups Staff: As always, our staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure everyone feels welcome. If you are nervous about coming alone, drop us a message beforehand and we will make sure someone meets you at the door!
- First Aid & Evacuation: The venue has dedicated first-aid trained staff and all emergency exits are step-free. We will follow the lead of Ash from The Green Moon.
🎟️ How to Book
Spaces are limited so we can keep the group size relaxed and comfortable.
Booking is open NOW.
Booking will close on Thursday 17th September at 6pm.
Please book your spot below:
If you have any questions or are unsure about attending for the first time, please reach out to us at events@littlehiccups.co.uk. We’d love to have you join us!
Important Booking Information: Please note that our events are heavily subsidised by Little Hiccups to support our community. Because the charity covers the remaining costs based on our final confirmed numbers (such as venue hire, refreshments, entertainers and presenter costs), we kindly ask that you let us know if your plans change. If you can no longer make it, please cancel your places by emailing events@littlehiccups.co.uk so we can reallocate the spots and prevent charity funds from being lost.
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/events/2026-09-24-dadland-the-green-moon
Dance21 is our high-energy dance group for young people aged 12 and over.
These sessions focus on creative movement, socialising, and fitness. It is a fantastic way for older young people to build their self-esteem, learn new routines, and catch up with friends every week.
Like our junior group, these sessions are led by Claire King, ensuring a supportive and expert-led environment for all participants.
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When: Every Thursday
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Time: 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm
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Where: Footsteps Theatre School, Idle, BD10 8PY
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Cost: £3.50 donation on entry (This allows our dancers to practice handling money and paying for their own sessions).
How to Join
We are always looking to welcome new faces to our dance family! If you would like to attend or have any questions about the sessions, please visit our website or get in touch.
Find out more: https://www.downsyndromebradford.com/
Overview For parents and carers unable to attend daytime meetings, Leeds Local Offer is running an evening SEND Parent Carer Information Drop-In session at The Vinery Centre.
Connect directly with statutory services, NHS practitioners, and community support groups under one roof to get answers regarding educational support, benefits, therapy services, and inclusive community groups.
Event Details
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Date: Thursday 24th September 2026
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Time: 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm (18:30 – 20:30)
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Venue: The Vinery Centre, 20 Vinery Terrace, Leeds, LS9 9LU
Services in Attendance & What You Can Discuss
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Leeds Local Offer: Accessing local services, events, and Local Offer resources.
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Leeds SENDIASS: Education, Health and Care (EHC) needs assessments and plans, educational transitions, specialist provisions, funding, and appeals.
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Carers Leeds: Benefits advice (including DLA and PIP) and emotional support for the caring role.
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Leeds Parent Carer Forum (Leeds PCF): Parent representation, local forums, and family events.
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Little Hiccups: Inclusive family events, sensory sessions, and parent peer-support networks.
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Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust: Speech and Language Therapy support around communication and swallowing.
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Leeds Family Hubs: Dedicated SEND coordinators and family hub resources.
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Time for Young People (The Children’s Society): Creative, safe spaces and early emotional wellbeing support for children and young people.
Travel & Accessibility
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By Car: Parking is available at the rear of the building, alongside street parking. Use sat nav postcode LS9 9LU.
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By Bus: Nearby bus stops include Raincliffe Road (2-minute walk), Torre Road (5-minute walk), East End Park Parade, Lupton Ave Torre Lane, and East Park Rd Glensdale Grove.
Registration & Contact
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Let the team know you’re attending: https://surveys.leeds.gov.uk/s/InfoDropIn/
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Email enquiries: LLO@leeds.gov.uk
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Website: https://www.leedslocaloffer.org.uk
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WhatsApp updates: https://tinyurl.com/LLOWhatsApp
Short Description:
A dedicated, supportive 8-week course for parents and carers to pause, recharge, build emotional resilience, and develop practical tools to navigate daily challenges with confidence.
Full Description:
Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while putting your own to one side? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to find time to reconnect with yourself.
Calm Within is a supportive space created for parents and carers to pause, reflect, and recharge. Over 8 weeks, you will explore practical tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and self-compassion. This is not about being the perfect parent—it’s about learning to support yourself, understanding your own needs, and discovering how creating calm within yourself can positively impact every area of your life.
What You’ll Explore:
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Finding greater calm, balance, and practical tools for everyday challenges
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Building emotional resilience and confidence
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Developing a deeper connection with yourself and creating healthier boundaries
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Feeling grounded, centred, and supported in a safe, welcoming space
Spaces are intentionally kept small to ensure a warm, focused group environment.
Event Details:
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Start Date: Thursday 24th September 2026
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Duration: 8 weeks
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Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm
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Tutor: Victoria
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Group Size: Maximum of 10 participants
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Cost: £25.00 per person, per week
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Location: Birkenshaw, BD11 2EX
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Booking Enquiries: Leedstherapyhubcic@gmail.com