Upcoming Events

The Toby Henderson Trust is launching a new monthly parent group hosted by Speech and Language Therapist, Emily. This supportive session is focused on children and young people who are diagnosed autistic, or potentially autistic, and experience Selective Mutism (also known as Situational Mutism).

It’s a welcoming space to learn more about Selective Mutism, share practical strategies, and connect with families who truly understand the journey.

✨ Details:

• When: Starting Monday 21st September | 10:00am – 11:00am

• Where: Toby House, Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 7AD

• Who it’s for: Parents and carers supporting children/young people with Selective Mutism

🎟️ To book your place:

• Email: admin@ttht.co.uk

• Phone: 0300 365 3055

Sunbeams is our youngest group and is for any children from birth (or even before!) to 4 years along with their siblings, parents and carers. It is a lovely time for playing, chatting and sharing a cuppa with other familes. We always end the group with a time of singing and signing which is popular with the little ones.

We would ask people to be mindful of the vulnerability of people with Down syndrome; please do not attend a face to face session if you are unwell with something that could be passed on to others –  we are grateful for your ongoing understanding and consideration of each other.

Contact
Phone: Weekday: 07442 332678 Weekend: 07472 320168
Email: hello@sunshineandsmiles.org.uk

• 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

Event Description

We are pleased to share this learning opportunity from our network partners at BSL Search.

If you have ever wanted to learn British Sign Language, this 6-week taster programme offers a basic introduction to BSL. Developed and taught by a Deaf tutor, the course is an excellent starting point for building foundational communication skills.

Event Details

• Course Length: 6-week course

• Start Date: Monday 7th September 2026

• Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm

• Cost: £100

• Location: Online / direct course delivery (please check with the provider upon booking)

How to Book

Spaces must be booked in advance directly with the provider:

• Email: Hello@bslsearch.co.uk

• Website: www.bslsearch.co.uk/courses.php

Please note: This course is structured and run entirely by BSL Search. It is shared on our website on behalf of our network partners.

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:

Riverside Family Hub, NE29 6DQ
2nd Sept, 7th Oct, 4th Nov and 2nd Dec 2025
6th Jan, 3rd Feb, 3rd Mar, 7th Apr

Howdon Family Hub, NE28 0AL
9th Sept, 14th Oct, 11th Nov and 9th Dec 2025
13th Jan, 10th Feb, 10th Mar, 14th Apr

Shiremoor Family Hub, NE27 0TA
16th Sept, 21st Oct and 18th Nov
20th Jan, 17th Feb, 17th Mar, 21st 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

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’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/

They understand that standard, busy open days can feel overwhelming. These events provide all the same excellent information and opportunities, but with strictly limited visitor numbers to reduce overstimulation and provide a gentle, calm pace that best supports those with SEND needs.

📅 Quieter Open Event Dates & Locations:

• Tuesday 29th September (4:30 PM – 6:30 PM)

  • Printworks Campus (Animal Care, Business, Digital & IT, Engineering, Hair & Beauty, Travel, etc.)

  • Quarry Hill Campus (Creative Arts, Social Care, Public Services, Early Years)

  • Somerville House (Enterprise & Employability)

• Tuesday 20th October (4:30 PM – 6:30 PM)

  • Park Lane Campus (Science, Sport, A-Levels, Future Pathways)

🌟 Specialist SEND / EHCP Provisions:

Leeds City College also offers dedicated, specialist pathways at specific campuses:

• Foundation Studies (Preparing for Adult Life): Based at the Joseph Priestley Campus, providing personalised programmes focusing on life skills, communication, independence, and employment pathways for learners with severe and complex learning difficulties.

• The Vine (PMLD Provision): A specialist provision offering targeted support including hydrotherapy, physiotherapy, sensory cognition, and intensive emotional and physical interaction support.

📝 How to Register & Contact Details:

Places are limited, so early booking is highly recommended!

• 🔗 Register your interest and book your place here: www.leedscitycollege.ac.uk/events/quieter-open-events

• 📧 For questions, transition support, or accessibility requirements: Contact the Events team at EventsMarketing@luminate.ac.uk or call 0113 284 6680. Get in touch with them if you need information on Blue Badge parking spaces, Sign Language interpretation, transition visits, or any other additional support requirements to help you visit the right campus.

Please see the attached flyers (Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.04.png, Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.08.png, Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.21.png, Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.26.png, Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.33.png, and Screenshot 2026-06-11 11.59.37.png) for full details!

#LeedsCityCollege #QuieterOpenEvents #SENDSupport #PMLD #FoundationStudies #WestYorkshireCANN #AdditionalNeeds #Post16Options #EHCP

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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/