Upcoming Events

📅 Date & Time

• Date: 2nd Wednesday of the month

• Time: 19:00 – 21:00

📍 Location

The Function Room, The White Swan

High Street, Yeadon, Leeds, LS19 7TA

📝 Event Description

Join Pawsitive Action Leeds CIC for a new, casual, and friendly peer support meetup designed specifically for anyone navigating PTSD, C-PTSD, or domestic abuse (DV) trauma.

This is a safe, welcoming, and relaxed space to enjoy good company, chat, and share some dog love. There is zero pressure and no expectation to share anything you aren’t comfortable with.

Our group is facilitated by specialist canine and disability practitioners who have lived experience of trauma. Alongside being a warm space to connect, you can also help shape the future of trauma support assistance dogs with us!

🐕 Do I need to bring a dog?

No dog required! You are more than welcome to come just as you are. However, if you have a dog who is calm and comfortable in a pub environment, feel free to bring them along!

🎟️ Admission & Support:

• FREE to attend.

• As this group is hosted at a local pub, we kindly ask attendees to support our host venue by purchasing a drink or some food during the evening.

ℹ️ Please note: This is a peer support group and is not attended by clinical mental health professionals.

📧 Enquiries: pawsitiveactionleeds@gmail.com

🌐 Organisation: Run by Pawsitive Action Leeds CIC – Making Assistance Dogs Accessible to All

Henry Moore Lecture Theatre, Leeds Art GalleryLeeds, West Yorkshire

Saturday 5 December  •  1 PM – 4 PM

Overview

A presentation and discussion with Benedict Phillips (artist) and Briony Martin (Lotus Links Founder).

NO CRY FOR HELP IS LOUD ENOUGH

1.00-2.00pm

Benedict Phillips (artist) and Briony Martin (Lotus links founder)

An introduction to the processes that brought this project into being. The experiences and inspiration that built the Lotus links community, and shaped this process. Followed by a Q & A.

2:00-4:00pm

Community exhibition & launch

Join the artist and community to explore the exhibition. Light refreshments and a separate quiet safe space will be available throughout the day in Henry Moore lecture theatre.

Exhibition description:

NO CRY FOR HELP IS LOUD ENOUGH

An installation of Photography and text made through a collaboration between Artist & Curator Benedict Phillips and the Lotus Links Peer Support community. Exploring and expressing deeply personal and emotive shared experiences of Neurodivergence in conflict with institutional processes and thinking.

This work involves considerable personal investment, discussing, exploring and finding different ways to express what is often left unsaid in public spaces and finding a way to communicate this through Art.

This work comes from a desire to tell stories in response to what has happened in the past and what is happening right now in people’s lives. It explores emotive lived experience through ideas of activism, performance, poetry and photography with a clear intention to be a provocation, and to open up a debate around the hierarchy and relationships between institutions and their policies and the individual. Highlighting the impact on parents and their children who find themselves living in conflict with the normative and ableism of our world all around them.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/no-cry-for-help-is-loud-enough-community-exhibition-and-launch-event-tickets-2002237051921

• Organiser: Sheffield Parent Carer Forum

• Format: Recurring Event

• Time: 9:45am – 2:45pm

• Dates to Select:

  • Thursday 12th November 2026

  • Wednesday 2nd December 2026

  • Monday 14th December 2026

  • Monday 11th January 2027

• Location: Online / Virtual

• Booking URL: https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/about/neurodisability-training-project/

• Description: Delivered by Sheffield Parent Carer Forum, this online training session is designed for professionals and practitioners working with children aged 0–12, focusing on Autism and ADHD.

Session Times: 9:45am – 2:45pm

Location: Online

Places must be booked in advance. To register for any of the scheduled dates, visit:

https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/about/neurodisability-training-project/

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

• Event Title: Sheffield Parent Carer Forum: Information Sessions & Drop-ins

• Organiser: Sheffield Parent Carer Forum (Shared via South Yorkshire CANN)

• Booking / More Info URL: https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

• Description: Sheffield Parent Carer Forum is hosting a series of informative, supportive sessions for parent carers. Check the booking link for specific venue locations or joining instructions.

Upcoming Sessions:

• Introduction to trauma-informed practice: Wednesday 4th November | 10:00am – 12:30pm

• Neurodivergence and eating: Thursday 12th November | 10:00am – 12:30pm

• Introduction to demand avoidance: Wednesday 18th November | 10:00am – 12:30pm

• Coffee and Chat drop-in: Thursday 26th November | 9:30am – 12:00pm

• ONLINE: Introduction to Autism: Friday 27th November | 7:00pm – 9:30pm (Virtual)

For full venue details and to book your place, visit:

https://sheffieldparentcarerforum.org.uk/events/

📍 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/

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

Event Title: Dads United – Peer Support Community

Time: 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Location: Newcastle Greyhound Stadium, The Fossway, Byker, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE6 2XJ

Cost: Free (Booking required)

Organiser: The Toby Henderson Trust

About the Event:

Dads United is a dedicated community group for dads, stepdads, and male carers of autistic children, young people, and adults, as well as those who may be autistic.

Enjoy an evening at the dogs to meet like-minded people, share a laugh, and chat about everyday life—not just the kids! It is a chance to spend time with others who understand the journey in a relaxed, pressure-free, and non-judgemental space.

The group is facilitated by Toby Henderson Trust trustees James and Kevin (who bring lived experience) alongside Andy, a former SENDCo with a wealth of knowledge and expertise.

How to Book:

Places must be booked in advance.

• Email: admin@ttht.co.uk

• Telephone: 0300 365 3055

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/

Short Description:

A dedicated, supportive 8-week course for parents and carers to pause, recharge, build emotional resilience, and develop practical tools to navigate daily challenges with confidence.

Full Description:

Do you ever feel like you’re carrying the weight of everyone else’s needs while putting your own to one side? Perhaps you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or struggling to find time to reconnect with yourself.

Calm Within is a supportive space created for parents and carers to pause, reflect, and recharge. Over 8 weeks, you will explore practical tools to navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and self-compassion. This is not about being the perfect parent—it’s about learning to support yourself, understanding your own needs, and discovering how creating calm within yourself can positively impact every area of your life.

What You’ll Explore:

• Finding greater calm, balance, and practical tools for everyday challenges

• Building emotional resilience and confidence

• Developing a deeper connection with yourself and creating healthier boundaries

• Feeling grounded, centred, and supported in a safe, welcoming space

Spaces are intentionally kept small to ensure a warm, focused group environment.

Event Details:

• Start Date: Thursday 24th September 2026

• Duration: 8 weeks

• Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

• Tutor: Victoria

• Group Size: Maximum of 10 participants

• Cost: £25.00 per person, per week

• Location: Birkenshaw, BD11 2EX

• Booking Enquiries: Leedstherapyhubcic@gmail.com

Henry Moore Lecture Theatre, Leeds Art GalleryLeeds, West Yorkshire

Saturday 5 December  •  1 PM – 4 PM

Overview

A presentation and discussion with Benedict Phillips (artist) and Briony Martin (Lotus Links Founder).

NO CRY FOR HELP IS LOUD ENOUGH

1.00-2.00pm

Benedict Phillips (artist) and Briony Martin (Lotus links founder)

An introduction to the processes that brought this project into being. The experiences and inspiration that built the Lotus links community, and shaped this process. Followed by a Q & A.

2:00-4:00pm

Community exhibition & launch

Join the artist and community to explore the exhibition. Light refreshments and a separate quiet safe space will be available throughout the day in Henry Moore lecture theatre.

Exhibition description:

NO CRY FOR HELP IS LOUD ENOUGH

An installation of Photography and text made through a collaboration between Artist & Curator Benedict Phillips and the Lotus Links Peer Support community. Exploring and expressing deeply personal and emotive shared experiences of Neurodivergence in conflict with institutional processes and thinking.

This work involves considerable personal investment, discussing, exploring and finding different ways to express what is often left unsaid in public spaces and finding a way to communicate this through Art.

This work comes from a desire to tell stories in response to what has happened in the past and what is happening right now in people’s lives. It explores emotive lived experience through ideas of activism, performance, poetry and photography with a clear intention to be a provocation, and to open up a debate around the hierarchy and relationships between institutions and their policies and the individual. Highlighting the impact on parents and their children who find themselves living in conflict with the normative and ableism of our world all around them.

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/no-cry-for-help-is-loud-enough-community-exhibition-and-launch-event-tickets-2002237051921

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:

• Organisation: Family Focus North East

• Venue: Galafield Family Hub

• Start Date: Friday 4th September

• Frequency: Fortnightly (every two weeks)

• Age Group: Children aged 10–13 years along with their parents/carers

• Cost: Free

• Contact Email: familyfocus2026@gmail.com

• 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:

• Feeling anxious or overwhelmed

• Experiencing low mood

• Struggling with emotional regulation

Key Information:

• No referral is required

• No diagnosis is needed

• 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.

📍 Venue: Sensory World, Old Westgate, Dewsbury, WF16 7SX
📅 Day: Every Friday
🕙 Time: 10:00 AM

What’s On?

🧩 Games & Activities:

• Scrabble
• Telephone
• Other fun word and social games

🍴 Food & Drinks:

• Available throughout the session
• Licensed bar for refreshments

Who Can Join?

✅ All welcome!
This is a friendly, inclusive space for socialising, playing games, and enjoying good company.

Booking Details

📞 Call: 07801 065589
No booking fee – just come along and join the fun!

Description: Enjoy a calming and restorative Baby Yoga session. Led by Kalma Life, these classes focus on gentle stretching and movement for your baby, promoting flexibility and relaxation. It’s a peaceful environment to connect with your child and share support with other neonatal families.

• When: Every Friday

• Time: 1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

• Location: Ridgeway Family Hub (Kalma Life)

• 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/