Upcoming Events

Our course helps professionals, parents and carers use music to unlock communication and creativity. The training includes interactive workshops, real-world examples, and take-home resources.

Book your course: https://jessiesfund.org.uk/our-work/training/making-music-with-special-children/ 

Who is the course for?

The course is open to anyone working with or caring for children who have additional needs, complex needs, or life-shortening illnesses. Whether you’re a musical novice or have some experience you will go away with plenty of ideas and practical techniques that you can start using straight away. Even if you are an accomplished musician, our course will teach you how your skills can be applied in this new context, giving you the confidence to bring your music to children with special educational needs and disabilities.

What will the course cover?

Exploring musical instruments

Working with pulse and rhythm

Singing

Using iPads for music

Approaches to working one-to-one

Working with groups

How much does it cost?

Course fees

Jessie’s Fund subsidises your training, so your contribution for the whole two-day course will be just £95. This includes refreshments and a light lunch on both days.

Book course in York

Book course in London

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.

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

What is Chit & Chat?

A relaxed, informal online social meet for an hour once a fortnight. Come and connect with like-minded young people in a friendly, supportive, and safe space – all from the comfort of your own home. Whether you’re chatting away or just listening in, everyone’s welcome.

When?

Fortnightly on Wednesdays, from 5:00–6:00pm GMT

https://www.cpteensuk.org/events

Our cricket sessions are for young people aged 11+.

We have 10 places available for each session, at the moment we have no support staff available so parents and carers will need to stay with their young person.

The sessions are being coached by a qualified Yorkshire Cricket Board coach.

The booking form is here and it is now live for bookings.

Please email ailith@sunshineandsmiles.org.uk if you have any questions.

Zoom Karaoke for ages 10+

This is our Karaoke singing group, hosted by Kerry Maule on Zoom. Throughout the session we will provide music & lyrics and individuals will have the chance to sing their song while others in the group sing along at home.

If you or a young person are interested, please email adminteam@sunshineandsmiles.org.uk or message Ailith on 07442 332678 for the link and to give us your song choice!

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

The Toby Henderson Trust is hosting an informative online session designed for parents and carers who find daily personal care routines challenging with their child.

Presented by Specialist Occupational Therapist and Sensory Integration Practitioner Sophie Pearson, this session will cover common difficulties experienced by autistic children and offer practical advice to help your child feel more confident and supported in managing their care routines.

✨ Details:

• When: Thursday 1st October 2026 | 10:00am – 11:30am

• Where: Online via Zoom

• Who it’s for: Parents and carers of autistic children and young people

🎟️ How to book:

• Website: www.ttht.co.uk

• Email: admin@ttht.co.uk

• Phone: 0300 365 3055

📍 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/

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

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

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.

• When: Every Thursday

• Time: 6.00 pm – 7.00 pm

• Where: Footsteps Theatre School, Idle, BD10 8PY

• 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/