Upcoming Events

A welcoming group for all children aged 0–5 and their families.

When:
Every Tuesday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
(Term-time only)

Where:
Sheffield Mencap, Norfolk Lodge
Park Grange Road, Sheffield, S2 3QF

What to Expect:

• Free of charge – no booking needed, just drop in!
• A chance to meet other parents
• Fun children’s activities, toys, and games
• Refreshments provided

Who is it for?
Families with children aged 0–5 looking for an inclusive, friendly environment to play and connect.

We are thrilled to share this fantastic, brand-new event from Employment and Skills Leeds! For the first time, three major regional events—the Leeds Digital Careers Fair, Leeds Creative Skills Festival, and the SEND Next Choices Event—are being combined into one ambitious, city-wide careers, jobs, and training fair: Careers In Leeds.

This inclusive event is completely free to attend and open to everyone, offering a refreshed approach to bringing talent and opportunities together across Leeds and the wider region.

What to Expect:

• 🏢 100+ Exhibitors: Talk directly to major employers across a massive range of sectors, including business, digital, creative design, education, engineering, health, care services, finance, law, and many more.

• 📋 Live Vacancies & Guidance: Access information, advice, guidance, and live job vacancies on the day.

• 🎓 Training & Opportunities: Discover the various training pathways and career opportunities available across the city.

Event Details & Quiet Hour:

To ensure the event is accessible to everyone, the first hour has been set aside as a dedicated quiet space.

📅 Date: Tuesday 3rd November 2026

📍 Location: Leeds (Full venue details available at booking)

⏰ Timings:

• 12:00pm – 1:00pm: Quiet Hour (Exclusively reserved for visitors with special educational needs and/or disabilities. Tickets are limited).

• 1:00pm – 6:00pm: General Admission

🎟️ Cost: Free, but booking is required!

How to Book:

Secure your free ticket and find out more by visiting the Inclusive Growth Leeds website:

🔗 Book Tickets Here: https://www.inclusivegrowthleeds.com/careers-leeds

The Toby Henderson Trust is hosting monthly support group sessions for all parents and carers, regardless of where you live. It’s a welcoming space to connect with other families, share experiences, and receive practical advice around key topics.

📍 Location: Gosforth Civic Theatre, Regent Farm Road, Gosforth, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE3 3HD

🗓️ Upcoming Sessions (1:30pm – 3:00pm):

• Tuesday 1st September: Self Care and crafts before the return to school (open to parents, children, and young people)

• Tuesday 6th October: Sleep Issues (parents only)

• Tuesday 3rd November: Toileting Issues (parents only)

• Tuesday 8th December: Preparing for Christmas (parents only)

🎟️ Booking Info: Places must be booked in advance to attend.

• Email: admin@ttht.co.uk

• Phone: 0300 365 3055

We’re launching a convenient tea-time coffee break especially for parent carers!

Tuesdays 4:00pm – 5:30pm

FREE

Drop in for a cuppa, relax, and connect with other parent carers in a friendly, supportive space, all while your child is safely engaged in their session.

A little time for you at the end of the day 
No pressure, just support and community.
We’d love to see you there 

Book Now: https://bookwhen.com/gracehouse#focus=ev-swlne-20260417180000

• Date/Time: Every Tuesday, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm.

• Location: Pinnacle Performance Fitness Studio, Bradford.

• Book online: https://www.downsyndromebradford.com/

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

Join Resident Visual Artist on Wednesday afternoons for accessible engaging visual art workshops at Touchbase Pears.

In our accessible studio you will be supported explore visual and tactile art; exploring new tools and techniques and develop your artistic practice. Our workshops are tailored to you, using a person-centred approach that creates space for you to explore and experiment with art in your own way and at your own pace. This Is My Art, our artistic vision written by Artistic Director – Tanya Raabe-Webber, prioritises process over product.

You don’t need to stay for the full session.

Who is it for?

Disabled people with complex needs.

**Please only book a slot for the participating artist. Parents, carers and support staff do not need to book. If you are unable to attend, please email artsandwellbeing@sense.org.uk to cancel your booking. If the workshop is fully booked, please email to be put on the waiting list. **

Access

Tactile art techniques and materials will be used.

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

Join our welcoming community of parents and carers of children aged 0–10 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) or emerging needs for informal advice and support. These regular sessions are hosted by our friendly Family Connectors who share their lived experience of raising children with SEND to offer understanding, support, and signposting to services.

• When: 1st Wednesday of each month.

• Time: 10:00am – 11:30am.

• Where: Park Lane Centre, Park Lane, Bradford, BD5 0LN.

• Cost: Free to attend.

• Features: Free refreshments are provided, and children are very welcome.

• Requirements: No diagnosis or formal pathway is necessary to join us.

Registration: While you can register on the day, signing up in advance allows you to access 1:1 support and join our friendly WhatsApp group. Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=UNBN7Z7jDk6pmUCX-a-xZe1LCptBUiBNlPO4JzShuMFURjFWU0ZUNUJPTDMxTEs1TEhYSTRTRFFaQS4u&route=shorturl

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/

• 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

Join us for a relaxing evening at a local restaurant, brought to you by Little Hiccups. This event is designed to give parents and carers a well-deserved night off. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere, great company, and delicious food.

This time we will be at: HARVESTER COLTON MILL, Stile Hill Way, Colton, Leeds LS15 9JH

When it comes to family dining in Leeds, Harvester is the perfect destination. With a range of delicious menu classics to choose from, you can be sure that everyone in your family will find something they love – even the most hard to please kids.

At Harvester, we believe that families should be able to enjoy quality time together without having to worry about cooking or cleaning up afterwards. So come on down to The Colton Mill Harvester and let us take care of everything while you spend quality time with your loved ones.

The aim of this is to hold a regular event for parent/carers to be able to have a night off to relax and to get together. It will be held the first Wednesday every 3 months at 6pm (We’ve moved this one due to Bonfire Night!)  Over 18’s only please. 

Little Hiccups will purchase vouchers in advance and on arrival, every attendee will receive a £10 voucher towards their food and drink.

We look forward to seeing you there for a night of relaxation and fun!

Please do let us know of any allergies or access needs so we can alert the Restaurant team beforehand. If you or anyone in your party has any allergies, intolerance or dietary requirements, please also inform your server of this when you arrive for dining, and also refer to their onsite allergen information at the time of your visit to check for changes.

View Menu here >

Bookings Open Oct 1st at 6pm and close 7 days before the event. 

https://www.harvester.co.uk/restaurants/yorkshireandthehumber/thecoltonmillleeds#/

Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/events/2026-11-04-carers-chill-night/

Come and join us for a cuppa, chat, offload or just a good old gossip, at Portland Academy’s coffee shop, ran by parents for parents & carers. The first cuppa is on us!

Portland Academy, Weymouth Rd, Sunderland, Chapelgarth SR3 2NQ, 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.

Join Carers Leeds to stretch your legs as we enjoy beautiful parks together in Leeds. We invite you to join us to promote your health and well-being. No equipment needed, just get your comfy shoes and enjoy a stroll and a chat together.

Walk with us→

Organiser: The Toby Henderson Trust

About This Event

Join The Toby Henderson Trust once a month at Toby House for an informal, supportive Book Club created specifically for parents and carers of autistic children.

Each month, the group explores a specific autism-related theme with a curated selection of books to browse, read, and discuss.

Unlike traditional book clubs, there is no requirement to read a specific book beforehand—simply come along as you are to share thoughts, connect with other parents, and discover helpful new reads. Parents are also very welcome to bring along any favourite books related to the monthly theme to share with the group.

Upcoming Dates & Themes

All sessions run from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm:

• Thursday 3rd September 2026: Emotional Regulation

• Thursday 1st October 2026: Diagnosed Autistic Later in Life

• Thursday 5th November 2026: Stimming

• Thursday 3rd December 2026: An Autistic Christmas

Event Details

• Location: Toby House, Earth Balance, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 7AD

• Time: 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm (Monthly on Thursdays)

• Cost: Free

• Suitability: Parents and carers of autistic children

Booking & Contact Information

Places must be booked in advance. To secure your place or find out more:

• Email: support@ttht.co.uk

• Telephone: 0300 365 3055

• Website: https://www.ttht.co.uk

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.

• When: Every Thursday

• Time: 1:15 pm – 2:15 pm

• Location: The Word, 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/