Upcoming Events
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
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
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VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
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Serving Autism: 10:00am – 11:00am
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Yorkshire Para Standing Tennis Club: 11:00am – 12:00pm
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Cardio Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Walking Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
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Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
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Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Wheelchair Tennis Inclusive Group: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Graves Tennis Centre)
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Women’s Group: 11:00am – 12:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Doubles Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Brentwood)
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Cardio Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Brentwood)
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Walking Tennis: 2:00pm – 3:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
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Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
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Email Ben: benabilitytennis@gmail.com
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Open Court Enquiries: yorkshireopencourt@gmail.com
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Website: https://www.abilitytennis.co.uk
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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
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/
A fortnightly emotional wellbeing drop-in group run by Family Focus North East for parents, carers, and children aged 10–13. No referral or diagnosis needed.
Event Details:
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Organisation: Family Focus North East
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Venue: Deckham Family Hub
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Start Date: Friday 28th August
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Frequency: Fortnightly (every two weeks)
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Age Group: Children aged 10–13 years along with their parents/carers
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Cost: Free
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Contact Email: familyfocus2026@gmail.com
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Supported by: The National Lottery Community Fund
About the Event
Calm Connections is an informal emotional wellbeing drop-in group run by Family Focus North East.
It provides a safe, welcoming space for parents, carers, and young people aged 10–13 who may be:
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Feeling anxious or overwhelmed
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Experiencing low mood
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Struggling with emotional regulation
Key Information:
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No referral is required
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No diagnosis is needed
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No pressure – just a safe space to connect and receive support
Get in Touch:
For any questions or more information, please email familyfocus2026@gmail.com.
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VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
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Serving Autism: 10:00am – 11:00am
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Yorkshire Para Standing Tennis Club: 11:00am – 12:00pm
-
Cardio Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
-
Walking Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
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Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
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Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Wheelchair Tennis Inclusive Group: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Graves Tennis Centre)
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Women’s Group: 11:00am – 12:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Doubles Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Brentwood)
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Cardio Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Brentwood)
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Walking Tennis: 2:00pm – 3:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
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Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
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Email Ben: benabilitytennis@gmail.com
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Open Court Enquiries: yorkshireopencourt@gmail.com
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Website: https://www.abilitytennis.co.uk
The Active Lifestyles Group meets for two hours on a Friday afternoon for a two hour trip through some of Leeds’ finest parks.
This group is free.
Most weeks there are about 10 members joining us, with support workers where required.
Our trips are reasonably gentle. They last for the full two hours with short stops for rests when somebody needs one.
We aim for paths and grass, rather than scrambling up rocks.
We meet at a different venue each week. Examples of parks we visit are: Roundhay, Middleton and Golden Acre.
Absolutely FREE!
Every Friday
13:00 until 15:00
Meet at the location, which will change every week
People can join by contacting Al Mayes on 0113 2443729 or al.mayes@peopleinaction.org.uk
Twirly21s is a lovely continuation from our early development groups, designed specifically for children with Down syndrome aged 5 to 12.
These sessions are more than just a dance class; they provide a consistent space for parents and children to keep in touch, share experiences, and grow together. Our dancers focus on coordination, rhythm, and confidence in a fun, friendly environment.
Classes are delivered by Claire King, who has a wealth of experience working with young children with Down syndrome.
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When: Every Saturday
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Time: 2.30 pm – 3.30 pm
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Where: Footsteps Theatre School, Idle, BD10 8PY
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Cost: £2 donation on entry (Dancers are encouraged to pay at the door to help practice their independent money skills).
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VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
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Serving Autism: 10:00am – 11:00am
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Yorkshire Para Standing Tennis Club: 11:00am – 12:00pm
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Cardio Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Walking Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm
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Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
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Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Wheelchair Tennis Inclusive Group: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Graves Tennis Centre)
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Women’s Group: 11:00am – 12:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Doubles Tennis: 12:00pm – 1:00pm (Brentwood)
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Cardio Tennis: 1:00pm – 2:00pm (Brentwood)
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Walking Tennis: 2:00pm – 3:00pm (Brentwood)
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Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
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Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
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Email Ben: benabilitytennis@gmail.com
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Open Court Enquiries: yorkshireopencourt@gmail.com
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Website: https://www.abilitytennis.co.uk
Fancy a calm and quiet skate with no music, no lights and fewer visitors?
Join us for a relaxed skating session on a Sunday morning.
Sunday 15 November 2026, 10:00am – 11:00am
Sunday 6 December 2026, 10:00am – 11:00am
Sunday 3 January 2027, 10:00am – 11:00am
To book tickets for a relaxed skate, simply select one of the above skating sessions when booking online.
Situated in Times Square, just outside Life Science Centre, the rink, made of real ice, runs throughout the Christmas season, providing skaters of all ages and abilities with the ultimate festive experience.
Skating sessions last approximately one hour (includes time to fit skates, so expect around 45 minutes on the ice).
To guarantee a space and to avoid disappointment, we recommend booking tickets online ahead of your visit. For extra peace of mind, choose our flexi-ticket option, allowing you to change your booking if your plans change closer to the time.
https://www.life.org.uk/whats-on/event/ice-skating-relaxed-sessions
Enjoy dedicated quiet time for anyone to access and enjoy the science centre, including autistic people and those with other sensory needs.
Explore the science centre with fewer visitors and less noise, and enjoy relaxed performances in our Planetarium and Science Theatre. Find out what’s on during your visit.
Lighting and sound levels will be altered where possible, to accommodate those with sensory needs. For example, hand-dryers in toilets will be turned off for the duration of the session.
Relaxed Sunday Sessions run from 10.00am – 12.00pm. You are welcome to stay after this time if you wish, but please note that our traditional programme, lighting and sound levels will gradually resume from 12.00pm.
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Description: An informal group for parent-carers to discuss a monthly book and enjoy a bit of ‘me-time’.
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Date/Time: Every Monday (Starting 2nd February), 10:00am – 11:00am.
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Location: Grace House, Bardolph Drive, Sunderland, SR5 2DE.
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Contact: 0191 435 2088 | info@gracehouse.co.uk
Anjali Dance Company and Access Sport are working together to offer dance sessions for learning disabled and neurodivergent young people and young adults. First session is FREE and then £3 for all other sessions.
🗓️Mondays 5:30 – 6:30pm, term time
📍 Moseley Community Hub, 496 Moseley Rd, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 9AH
To sign up: Scan the QR code on the flyer, or click this link https://eequ.org/book/anjali-inclusive-dance-classes-birmingham-with-anjali-dance-company-26495
You can also email info@anjali.co.uk or call 07482169667 if you have any questions,
Organisation: North East Autism Society
Date: Tuesday mornings
Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Venue: Byker Sands Family Centre, 19 Raby Cross, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2FF
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
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VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
-
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
-
Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
-
Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
-
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)
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Women’s Tennis Xpress Starter Group: 6:00pm – 7:00pm (Graves)
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Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
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Email Ben: benabilitytennis@gmail.com
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Open Court Enquiries: yorkshireopencourt@gmail.com
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Website: https://www.abilitytennis.co.uk
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
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
-
VI (Visually Impaired) Weekly Tennis: 12:30pm – 3:00pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Graves Tennis Centre)
-
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
-
Sensory Tennis: 11:00am – 12:00pm
-
Mencap & Gateway Adult Tennis Inclusive (LD): 12:00pm – 1:00pm
-
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)
-
Kids Tennis Inclusive: 1:00pm – 1:45pm & 2:00pm – 2:45pm (Spring/Summer: Brentwood Tennis Centre | Autumn/Winter: Hallamshire Tennis & Squash Club)
-
Email Ben: benabilitytennis@gmail.com
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Open Court Enquiries: yorkshireopencourt@gmail.com
-
Website: https://www.abilitytennis.co.uk
