Upcoming Events

When

December 15, 2026
12:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Location

Category

Organised by Ability Tennis in partnership with Yorkshire Tennis Open Court
Ability Tennis runs a dedicated weekly programme of inclusive and disability tennis and padel sessions across Yorkshire, welcoming children, young people, and adults of all abilities.
Whether you are looking for adapted coaching, wheelchair tennis, sensory-friendly sessions, or simply want to try a racket sport in a supportive environment, everyone is welcome.
Weekly Timetable & Venues:
Tuesdays:
  • VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
Wednesdays (Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club):
  • Serving Autism: 10:00am – 11:00am
  • Yorkshire Para Standing Tennis Club: 11:00am – 12:00pm
  • Cardio Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
  • Walking Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Wednesdays (Rotherham Leisure Centre):
  • Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Thursdays (Monthly):
  • Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Fridays:
  • Wheelchair Tennis Inclusive Group: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Graves Tennis Centre)
  • Women’s Group: 11:00am – 12:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Women’s Doubles Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Cardio Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Walking Tennis: 2:00pm – 3:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
Saturdays:
  • Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
Contact & Booking Information:
Before attending for the first time, please contact Ben Howarth to confirm session availability and venue details:

When

December 15, 2026
1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Location

Where

Carnegie Building
Atkinson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 8XS

Category

Map Unavailable

Organisation: North East Autism Society
Date: Tuesday afternoons
Time: 1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Venue: Carnegie Building, Atkinson Road, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE4 8XS
Age: 5 and under

Details:
A weekly Family Development parent and toddler group for children aged 5 and under who are going through the diagnostic process or have a diagnosis of autism. Sessions must be pre-booked in advance.

Booking & contact: Contact Lauren Abbott on 07795 320 314 or email lauren.abbott@ne-as.org.uk

When

December 15, 2026
4:00 pm - 5:30 pm

Location

Where

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

Category

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

When

December 15, 2026
4:30 pm - 5:30 pm

Location

Where

Category

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

  • Location: Pinnacle Performance Fitness Studio, Bradford.

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

When

December 15, 2026
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Location

Where

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

Category

Does your child enjoy music? Would they like to explore sound in a creative and supported way? Would you like to be part of our group music sessions which are full of smiles, laughter and enrichment? This is the place to be!

 

About the event

Music Therapy Sessions for Children with Additional Needs

Welcome to our enchanting Music Rainbow Room, a vibrant space where creativity and healing harmonize. Here, children with additional needs embark on a magical journey through the world of sound and rhythm, guided by our skilled music therapists Ash and Chad. Each session is designed to foster connection, self-expression, and personal growth in a nurturing environment.

A Safe and Inviting Space

The Music Rainbow Room is a feast for the senses, filled with colourful instruments. This inviting atmosphere encourages children to explore their emotions and communicate in ways that resonate with them. The room is a sanctuary where every child feels valued and heard.

Engaging Activities

During our music therapy sessions, children participate in a variety of engaging activities tailored to their unique needs and abilities. These may include:

  • Instrument Exploration: Children can experiment with a range of instruments, from drums to xylophones, violins, double bass and piano allowing them to discover their musical preferences.

  • Group Activities: Collaborative music-making fosters social skills and teamwork, creating a sense of community among participants.

Benefits of Music Therapy

Music therapy offers numerous benefits for children with additional needs, including:

  • Improved Communication: Music provides an alternative medium for children to express themselves, enhancing their verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

  • Emotional Regulation: Engaging with music helps children manage their emotions, promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety.

  • Social Skills Development: Through group activities, children learn to interact with peers, share, and collaborate, building essential social skills.

  • Boosted Self-Esteem: Creating and performing music fosters a sense of achievement, helping children gain confidence in their abilities.

Join Us in the Music Rainbow Room

We invite you to join us in the Music Rainbow Room, where every note played and every song sung is a step toward growth and healing. Together, we will create a symphony of joy, connection, and inspiration, celebrating the unique musical journey of each child. Experience the transformative power of music therapy in a space designed to uplift and empower!

 

With thanks to Music Connects Sunderland, Point North and RWE Great Eppleton Wind Farm Community Fund for sponsoring our sessions.

Book here: https://www.thespeciallioness.com/events

When

December 16, 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

December 16, 2026
10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Location

Category

Organised by Ability Tennis in partnership with Yorkshire Tennis Open Court
Ability Tennis runs a dedicated weekly programme of inclusive and disability tennis and padel sessions across Yorkshire, welcoming children, young people, and adults of all abilities.
Whether you are looking for adapted coaching, wheelchair tennis, sensory-friendly sessions, or simply want to try a racket sport in a supportive environment, everyone is welcome.
Weekly Timetable & Venues:
Tuesdays:
  • VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
Wednesdays (Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club):
  • Serving Autism: 10:00am – 11:00am
  • Yorkshire Para Standing Tennis Club: 11:00am – 12:00pm
  • Cardio Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
  • Walking Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Wednesdays (Rotherham Leisure Centre):
  • Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
Thursdays (Monthly):
  • Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
Fridays:
  • Wheelchair Tennis Inclusive Group: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Graves Tennis Centre)
  • Women’s Group: 11:00am – 12:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Women’s Doubles Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Cardio Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Walking Tennis: 2:00pm – 3:00pm (Brentwood)
  • Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
Saturdays:
  • Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
Contact & Booking Information:
Before attending for the first time, please contact Ben Howarth to confirm session availability and venue details:

When

December 16, 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

December 16, 2026
10:00 am - 11:30 am

Location

Where

Kirkgate Community Centre
39A Kirkgate, Shipley, BD18 3EH

Category

Are you raising a child aged 0–10 with SEND or emerging needs? Come along to our monthly coffee morning in Shipley for helpful advice and a chance to meet other parents in a similar situation. Our Family Connectors use their own lived experience to provide a supportive environment and signposting to local services.

  • When: 3rd Wednesday of each month.

  • Time: 10:00am – 11:30am.

  • Where: Kirkgate Community Centre, 39A Kirkgate, Shipley, BD18 3EH.

  • Cost: Free to attend.

  • Features: Free refreshments provided; children are welcome to come along.

  • Requirements: You do not need a diagnosis or a formal pathway to attend.

Registration: Families can register on the day or via the link below to access additional 1:1 support and our peer WhatsApp group. Register here: https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=UNBN7Z7jDk6pmUCX-a-xZe1LCptBUiBNlPO4JzShuMFURjFWU0ZUNUJPTDMxTEs1TEhYSTRTRFFaQS4u&route=shorturl

When

December 16, 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

December 16, 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

December 16, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Location

Where

Kulture Coffee
380 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, LS4 2HQ

Category

Organiser: Pawsitive Action Leeds CIC


Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday, 15 April 2026 (Held every 3rd Wednesday of the month)

  • Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

  • Location: Kulture Coffee, 380 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2HQ

  • Cost: FREE (Attendees are encouraged to support the venue by purchasing a drink or a “puppuccino”)


About the Event

A relaxed, friendly, and accessible social space for dog enthusiasts to meet. This event is explicitly LGBTQIA+ and disability inclusive.

Whether you are a dog owner or just a dog lover, all are welcome! If you are bringing a furry friend, please ensure they are friendly and non-reactive to keep the environment comfortable for everyone.

Contact Information

  • Email: pawsitiveactionleeds@gmail.com

When

December 16, 2026
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

Location

Where

Kulture Coffee
380 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, LS4 2HQ

Category

Organised by: Pawsitive Action Leeds CIC

About the Event

The festive season can be tough, but you don’t have to spend it feeling alone. Seasonal Solidarity is a welcoming community gathering designed for anyone who may be finding this time of year difficult.

Come along for warm food, fresh coffee, a cosy space, and a friendly chat. If you are currently struggling financially, your bill will be covered—no questions asked.

Everyone is warmly welcomed, whether you bring your dog along or not (and dog pats are completely free!).

Event Details

  • Date: Wednesday, 16th December

  • Time: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm

  • Location: Kulture Coffee, 380 Kirkstall Rd, Leeds, LS4 2HQ

  • Admission: Free / Open to all

Support & Donations

If you would like to help support this initiative and community members in need, there are a couple of ways to get involved:

  • Donate to the Fundraiser: Visit the GoFundMe page at https://gofund.me/245a638aa

  • Donate Pet Supplies: Email the team directly at contact@palcic.org

Questions & Enquiries

If you have any questions or accessibility requirements, please reach out via email:

  • Email: contact@palcic.org

When

December 17, 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

December 17, 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

December 17, 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

December 17, 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.

When

December 17, 2026
1:15 pm - 2:15 pm

Location

Category

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/

When

December 17, 2026
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm

Location

Where

Sheffield Mencap and Gateway
Norfolk Lodge, Park Grange Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S2 3QF

Category

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

When

December 17, 2026
5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Location

Where

Sheffield Mencap and Gateway
Norfolk Lodge, Park Grange Road, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S2 3QF

Category

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