Upcoming Events

Once upon a time (not in a theatre, but in a home just like yours), a show came to visit. It didn’t need a big stage or bright lights, just a family ready for a sensory adventure… 🌈
We’re delighted to announce that InSideWays will head out on its second tour from May – August.

Described by audiences as “exciting and playful” with “a lot of love and care behind it”, InSideWays is an accessible At Home sensory show created with families, for families – and it’s delivered to your door!

Tour dates
Estimated drop off and pick up dates

Suffolk: Monday 1 June – Friday 12 June


Dorset: Monday 22 June – Tuesday 7 July

Gwent and Glamorgan: Wednesday 24 June – Thursday 8 July

Cheshire: Monday 20 July – Tuesday 4 August

East Yorkshire: Wednesday 22 July – Thursday 6 August

Kent: Sunday 16 August – Friday 28 August


Wandsworth: Tuesday 18 August – Monday 31 August

Book Now
We know it’s not every day that a whole show comes to your house, so we’ve answered some frequently asked questions here. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, just reply to this email, we’re always happy to help.

There are only a few spaces in each area, so early booking is the best way to secure your spot.

Until next time,
Flossie and the Oily Cart team

When

August 26, 2026
9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Category

Looking for inclusive, accessible, and fun activities over the summer holidays? ⚽🎾🚴‍♂️

Smile Through Sport is offering an amazing lineup of summer activities for children, young people, and adults with SEND running from 20th July through 30th August 2026.

Whether you’re looking for frame running, wheelchair sports, boccia, adapted cycling, or outdoor games in National Trust settings, there’s something for everyone!

🌟 Junior Programme Highlights (Ages 4+)

  • Outdoor Games: Gibside & Crook Hall / Souter Lighthouse (FREE)

  • Multi-Sport: Cramlington, Sunderland, Hexham & Newcastle

  • Athletics & Frame Running: Gateshead International Stadium

  • Wheelchair Basketball & Tennis: Birtley Leisure Centre

  • Fun Sessions (Soft Play & Sensory Room): Cedars Academy, Gateshead

🌟 Adult Programme Highlights (Ages 18+)

  • Adapted Cycling: Newburn Activity Centre, Newcastle

  • Outdoor Games: Gibside National Trust & Souter Lighthouse

  • Multi-Sport: Wallsend, Hexham & Newcastle

  • Boccia: Cramlington & North Tyneside

📲 How to Book:

Spaces must be booked in advance! Visit their website or contact the team directly:

👉 Website: www.smilethroughsport.com/whats-on/

📞 Phone: 07934 227 276

📧 Email: info@smilethroughsport.com

#InclusiveSports #DisabilityActivities #SmileThroughSport #SENDSupport #Summer2026

When

August 26, 2026
9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location

Category

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

When

August 26, 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Where

SquarePeg Activities
37-39 Gate Lane, , Sutton Coldfield, B73 5TR

Category

Looking for brilliant, accessible events to keep the kids entertained over the summer holidays? Our friends at Square Peg Activities have an unbelievable lineup of themed sessions and day trips planned right through to late August!

From Nerf battles and pizza making to day trips, sensory sessions, and art workshops, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. 🎨🍕🦁

Key Details:

  • 🗓️ When: Running throughout July and August 2026
  • 📍 Location: 37-39 Gate Lane, Sutton Coldfield, B73 5TR
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who: Designed for disabled children and their siblings (Please note: Adults must stay on site)
  • 🥪 Extras: Lunch is served at all in-house events! Plus, the Gaming Room, Youth Den, Sensory Room, and Gardens are open during sessions unless stated.

🎟️ Info & Booking: Spaces go quickly, so be sure to secure your spots online!

Book directly here: https://squarepegcharity.simplybook.it/v2/?fbclid=IwY2xjawG6eXlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHU_2Bi8a0hE7CPqs-vQi_YOik5KvX1eTKxPgcFB0snumTzF0Q7ULYR-vTw_aem_r6FW00ubs-TbCyEjT-D7ag#book

Or visit: https://www.squarepegactivities.org/events

When

August 26, 2026
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location

Where

Grace House
Bardolph Drive , Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR5 2DE

Category

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

When

August 26, 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Category

The Sensory Place has an incredible lineup of activities planned for Weeks 3 to 6 of the summer holidays! From alpaca visits and surfing to forest school, soft play, and exclusive swimming hires, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Check out the weekly schedules below for dates, times, and activities:

🦙 Week 3 (7th – 9th August): Includes indoor rockpooling, Train Master, exclusive swimming in Washington, Battlekarts, and Anvil Alpaca visits! 

🐴 Week 4 (10th – 16th August): Featuring pond dipping at Washington Wildfowl Park, forest school, horse riding, soft play, and gymnastics. 

🌊 Week 5 (17th – 21st August): Highlights include York Maze, surfing at South Shields, Moana workshop, Arcade Warehouse, and felt making. 🐐 Week 6 (24th – 29th August): Pygmy goat experiences, summer disco, den building, Supertramps, and much more!

📩 To book or find out more information, drop an email to: Hello@thesensoryplace.net

When

August 26, 2026
10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Location

Where

Brigshaw High School
Brigshaw Lane, , Allerton Bywater, Castleford, , WF10 2HR

Category

Musical Theatre Workshops for Kids – Lilo and Stitch – Ohana Island Adventure🎶

Does your child love to sing, dance, or act? Are they curious about musicals and live performances—or just keen to try something new?

Then this workshop is perfect for them! No previous experience is needed. In this exciting session, children will dive into the colourful world of musical theatre. They’ll learn performance techniques, build confidence, and take part in a fun, physical theatre piece choreographed by Kathleen—inspired by the playful, heart‑warming world of Lilo & Stitch. 🌟 Workshop Theme: Ohana Island Adventure Step onto the beaches of Hawai‘i and explore the magic of this beloved story through:
  • Dance
  • Physical theatre
  • Island‑style storytelling
  • Music
Children will take part in creative, themed musical theatre activities, learn choreographed “Surf’s Up” and “Stitch‑style” movement phrases, and work together to create their own mini‑production! 🎓 Every participant will receive an Ohana Certificate of Achievement! 🌺 What NOT to Expect
  • Scary alien‑chase moments (we’re keeping everything friendly and fun!)
  • Unexpected loud bangs or pops
  • Real surfboards or ocean waves (we wish!)
  • Pressure to perform alone or do anything they’re uncomfortable with
💫 What Children Can Expect
  • A safe, supportive, and inclusive environment
  • Opportunities to share their own imaginative “experiment” ideas
  • A chance to try new skills and build stage confidence
  • Making new friends in a warm, tropical, ohana‑filled atmosphere

👧 Who is this for?

Our sessions are aimed at children with an ability range roughly between 6–11 years. However, we know that age doesn’t always reflect ability—so we won’t exclude anyone based on age alone. If a child falls outside this ability range, we kindly ask that a parent or carer stay to support them 1:1. Older children are also very welcome, though the content may feel a little young for some—it really depends on the individual child. We want our workshops to be inclusive and accessible to all. Please use the comments box to let us know of any access needs or support requirements when booking so we can tailor the experience to suit each child.

👨‍👩‍👧 Parent & Carer Information

  • waiting area will be available next door for parents and carers.
  • Children who require 1:1 support are warmly welcome to attend with a parent or carer and join in the fun together.
  • You do not need to book for the adult but parents and carers must remain on site for the duration of the session, even if you are not aiding the child with 1:1.
  • Siblings are welcome too! Please make sure to book them on if they’d like to join.

♿ Accessibility Information

Facilities include:

Meet your Instructor

Kathleen is a freelance Teacher and Choreographer, with over 30 years experience in the performing arts sector.
During this time she founded her own community dance company and worked as part of a multi agency team as a Dance Therapist.
She has spent many years working in education teaching therapeutic and curriculum dance across primary, secondary and alternative provision sites.
One of Kathleen’s proudest moments was staging her own productions at the Carriageworks Theatre in Leeds during 2010 to 2011. This was with her community dance company ‘Katz & Co studios’.
Kathleen is very passionate about supporting others. She is a huge advocate for equality, diversity, accessibility, inclusion and belonging. Kathleen loves sharing her knowledge and experience to enable others to become the best version of themselves.
As a youngster Kathleen found she had psychic abilities. She is a qualified Reiki practitioner (attuned to level 2) & certified Physiognomist (face reading).
Kathleen is a very proud mum and carer to three wonderful children, two of which are neurodivergent. Kathleen herself being recently diagnosed with ADHD.
Bookings https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/events/2026-08-26-musical-theatre-workshop-lilo-and-stitch-ohana-island-adventure/

When

August 26, 2026
11:45 am - 12:30 pm

Location

Where

Lovabelle
Visage House, , South Shields

Category

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.

  • When: Every Wednesday

  • Time: 11:45 am – 12:30 pm

  • Location: Lovabelle, Visage House, South Shields

  • Cost: Free for eligible families

  • 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/

When

August 26, 2026
1:15 pm - 2:15 pm

Where

Grace House
Bardolph Drive , Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR5 2DE

Category

  • Description: Inclusive yoga sessions designed specifically for parent-carers to help manage stress and physical health.

  • Date/Time: Mondays 11am-12pm & Wednesdays 1:15pm-2:15pm.

  • Cost: £2 per session.

  • Location: Grace House, Bardolph Drive, Sunderland, SR5 2DE.

  • Contact: 0191 435 2088 | info@gracehouse.co.uk

When

August 26, 2026
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm

Location

Where

Page Park
Park Road, Staple Hill, Bristol, BS16 5LB

Category

Our network friends over at Sense are hosting a completely free sensory nature walk at Page Park this August!

This accessible “Nature Explorers” walk is a wonderful opportunity for children and young people to connect with nature, engage their senses, and enjoy a relaxed, inclusive outdoor activity during the school holidays. Families are welcome to book onto multiple Sense summer events, but please remember to make just one booking per family for this day.

Event Details

Once upon a time (not in a theatre, but in a home just like yours), a show came to visit. It didn’t need a big stage or bright lights, just a family ready for a sensory adventure… 🌈
We’re delighted to announce that InSideWays will head out on its second tour from May – August.

Described by audiences as “exciting and playful” with “a lot of love and care behind it”, InSideWays is an accessible At Home sensory show created with families, for families – and it’s delivered to your door!

Tour dates
Estimated drop off and pick up dates

Suffolk: Monday 1 June – Friday 12 June


Dorset: Monday 22 June – Tuesday 7 July

Gwent and Glamorgan: Wednesday 24 June – Thursday 8 July

Cheshire: Monday 20 July – Tuesday 4 August

East Yorkshire: Wednesday 22 July – Thursday 6 August

Kent: Sunday 16 August – Friday 28 August


Wandsworth: Tuesday 18 August – Monday 31 August

Book Now
We know it’s not every day that a whole show comes to your house, so we’ve answered some frequently asked questions here. If there’s anything else you’d like to know, just reply to this email, we’re always happy to help.

There are only a few spaces in each area, so early booking is the best way to secure your spot.

Until next time,
Flossie and the Oily Cart team

Equipping our community with the skills to support one another can truly save lives. 🤝✨

PAPYRUS is delivering fully funded suicide prevention training for anyone living or working in Stockton-on-Tees, with spaces available over the coming months.

Here are the upcoming dates and course options:

🌸 SP-OT Objectives (90 minutes)

Understand the prevalence and impact of suicide, explore safe language when talking openly, recognize warning signs, and learn how to contribute to a suicide-safer community.

📅 15th September | 9:30am – 11:00am

🌸 SP-EAK Objectives (3.5 hours)

Deep dive into attitudes, myths, and stigma, recognize signs that indicate someone is having thoughts of suicide, learn how to hold open and sensitive conversations, and support someone in creating a safety plan.

📅 27th August | 9:30am – 1:00pm

📅 15th October | 1:00pm – 4:30pm

Spaces are free but limited!

👉 Reserve your place on Eventbrite:

https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/stockton-on-tees-tees-million-4853204

#Stockton #MentalHealthTraining #PAPYRUSUK #SuicidePreventionTraining #CommunityWellbeing

When

August 27, 2026
9:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Category

Looking for inclusive, accessible, and fun activities over the summer holidays? ⚽🎾🚴‍♂️

Smile Through Sport is offering an amazing lineup of summer activities for children, young people, and adults with SEND running from 20th July through 30th August 2026.

Whether you’re looking for frame running, wheelchair sports, boccia, adapted cycling, or outdoor games in National Trust settings, there’s something for everyone!

🌟 Junior Programme Highlights (Ages 4+)

  • Outdoor Games: Gibside & Crook Hall / Souter Lighthouse (FREE)

  • Multi-Sport: Cramlington, Sunderland, Hexham & Newcastle

  • Athletics & Frame Running: Gateshead International Stadium

  • Wheelchair Basketball & Tennis: Birtley Leisure Centre

  • Fun Sessions (Soft Play & Sensory Room): Cedars Academy, Gateshead

🌟 Adult Programme Highlights (Ages 18+)

  • Adapted Cycling: Newburn Activity Centre, Newcastle

  • Outdoor Games: Gibside National Trust & Souter Lighthouse

  • Multi-Sport: Wallsend, Hexham & Newcastle

  • Boccia: Cramlington & North Tyneside

📲 How to Book:

Spaces must be booked in advance! Visit their website or contact the team directly:

👉 Website: www.smilethroughsport.com/whats-on/

📞 Phone: 07934 227 276

📧 Email: info@smilethroughsport.com

#InclusiveSports #DisabilityActivities #SmileThroughSport #SENDSupport #Summer2026

When

August 27, 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Where

SquarePeg Activities
37-39 Gate Lane, , Sutton Coldfield, B73 5TR

Category

Looking for brilliant, accessible events to keep the kids entertained over the summer holidays? Our friends at Square Peg Activities have an unbelievable lineup of themed sessions and day trips planned right through to late August!

From Nerf battles and pizza making to day trips, sensory sessions, and art workshops, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. 🎨🍕🦁

Key Details:

  • 🗓️ When: Running throughout July and August 2026
  • 📍 Location: 37-39 Gate Lane, Sutton Coldfield, B73 5TR
  • 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Who: Designed for disabled children and their siblings (Please note: Adults must stay on site)
  • 🥪 Extras: Lunch is served at all in-house events! Plus, the Gaming Room, Youth Den, Sensory Room, and Gardens are open during sessions unless stated.

🎟️ Info & Booking: Spaces go quickly, so be sure to secure your spots online!

Book directly here: https://squarepegcharity.simplybook.it/v2/?fbclid=IwY2xjawG6eXlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHU_2Bi8a0hE7CPqs-vQi_YOik5KvX1eTKxPgcFB0snumTzF0Q7ULYR-vTw_aem_r6FW00ubs-TbCyEjT-D7ag#book

Or visit: https://www.squarepegactivities.org/events

When

August 27, 2026
10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location

Where

The Special Lioness
4 Baird Close, Washington, Tyne and Wear , NE37 3HL

Category

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.

When

August 27, 2026
10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Location

Where

Grace House
Bardolph Drive , Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR5 2DE

Category

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

When

August 27, 2026
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location

Where

Worley's World
The HUB Consett, 1 Sherburn Terrace, , Consett DH8 6ND, UK

Category

Join Worley’s World for their fantastic Play, Connect, Create family sessions! Designed for children and their grown-ups to explore emotions, build connection, and have fun together through creative play and hands-on activities.

🗓️ Session Dates & Times:

  • Thursday 13th August 2026 | 10:00am – 11:30am

  • Thursday 20th August 2026 | 10:00am – 11:30am

  • Thursday 27th August 2026 | 10:00am – 11:30am

What to expect:

  • Creative art and multi-sensory play activities

  • Emotional co-regulation tools for families in a supportive, relaxed environment

  • Fun for big kids raising little kids!

🎟️ Book your place: https://www.worleysworld.co.uk/event-details/play-connect-create-2026-08-13-10-00

When

August 27, 2026
10:00 am - 5:00 pm

Location

Category

The Sensory Place has an incredible lineup of activities planned for Weeks 3 to 6 of the summer holidays! From alpaca visits and surfing to forest school, soft play, and exclusive swimming hires, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Check out the weekly schedules below for dates, times, and activities:

🦙 Week 3 (7th – 9th August): Includes indoor rockpooling, Train Master, exclusive swimming in Washington, Battlekarts, and Anvil Alpaca visits! 

🐴 Week 4 (10th – 16th August): Featuring pond dipping at Washington Wildfowl Park, forest school, horse riding, soft play, and gymnastics. 

🌊 Week 5 (17th – 21st August): Highlights include York Maze, surfing at South Shields, Moana workshop, Arcade Warehouse, and felt making. 🐐 Week 6 (24th – 29th August): Pygmy goat experiences, summer disco, den building, Supertramps, and much more!

📩 To book or find out more information, drop an email to: Hello@thesensoryplace.net

When

August 27, 2026
10:30 am - 12:30 pm

Where

Sensory World
Old Westgate, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, WF13 1NB

Category

📍 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!

When

August 27, 2026
11:00 am - 2:00 pm

Where

Sensory World
Old Westgate, Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, WF13 1NB

Category

📍 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.

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