Upcoming Events
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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
Short Description:
A friendly, supportive 6-week community wellbeing group using simple mindfulness-based art practices to calm the nervous system, reduce stress, and support emotional balance.
Full Description:
Creative Calm is a supportive group offering a regular space to slow down, take a break from everyday pressures, and reconnect with yourself. Engaging in mindful, creative activity can help reduce stress and gently move the mind away from a “fight or flight” state toward a calmer, more grounded way of being.
No artistic experience is needed—the focus is entirely on the process of slowing down, noticing the present moment, and giving yourself time to rest.
What You’ll Experience:
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Calming the mind and body through gentle creative practice
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Reducing stress, physical tension, and supporting emotional balance
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Exploring simple, accessible mindfulness-based art techniques
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Creating dedicated space for rest, reflection, and relaxation
Event Details:
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Start Date: Monday 14th September 2026
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Duration: 6 weeks
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Time: 12:00pm – 1:00pm
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Group Size: Maximum of 10 participants
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Cost: £25.00 per person, per week
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Location: To be announced (Headingley/Burley area of Leeds)
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Booking Enquiries: Leedstherapyhubcic@gmail.com
Aimed at physical activity providers across education, leisure, and youth. We will explore current landscape & stats, barriers and challenges faced in sport by neurodivergent people and how you can adapt your own activities to be a neuro-inclusive environment. We will deep dive into Autism and ADHD, as well as looking at Dyspraxia, Dyslexia, Dyscalculia and Tourette’s.
🗓️Monday 12 October 2026
🕕Time: 13:00pm – 16:00pm
📍Location: Nechells Wellbeing Centre, Rupert St, Birmingham B7 4AR
For more information and to book: Birmingham – Neurodiversity Inclusion in Physical Activity
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
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Course Length: 6-week course
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Start Date: Monday 7th September 2026
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Time: 5:00pm – 6:00pm
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Cost: £100
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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:
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Email: Hello@bslsearch.co.uk
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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.
Here at the centre, we run course on moving and handling throughout the year. The courses are suitable for anyone working within the Health, Education or Social care sectors, especially for those wishing to be trainers themselves. Whilst our courses are not Accredited with a university or education centre, our trainer Julia Love, is an Advanced Member of National Back Exchange, a qualification recognizing a higher level of education, experience and competence in the industry. https://nationalbackexchange.glueup.com/membership/16523/apply/
This comprehensive 5-day course follows the National Back Exchange guidelines. It will give delegates the skills and knowledge they need to create and deliver their own moving and handling training in their own setting. It will also enable them to support and supervise their own staff in the future. The course includes practical sessions and offers continued support to delegates after the completion of the course.
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
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Date/Time: Every Tuesday, 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm.
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Location: Pinnacle Performance Fitness Studio, Bradford.
- Book online: https://www.downsyndromebradford.com/
Here at the centre, we run course on moving and handling throughout the year. The courses are suitable for anyone working within the Health, Education or Social care sectors, especially for those wishing to be trainers themselves. Whilst our courses are not Accredited with a university or education centre, our trainer Julia Love, is an Advanced Member of National Back Exchange, a qualification recognizing a higher level of education, experience and competence in the industry. https://nationalbackexchange.glueup.com/membership/16523/apply/
This comprehensive 5-day course follows the National Back Exchange guidelines. It will give delegates the skills and knowledge they need to create and deliver their own moving and handling training in their own setting. It will also enable them to support and supervise their own staff in the future. The course includes practical sessions and offers continued support to delegates after the completion of the course.
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
📝 About the Session
- What we will be doing: When a young person shows what we often call “challenging behaviour,” it is usually a signal of distress rather than defiance. This workshop will reframing challenging behaviour as communication (the signal!), helping us see what lies beneath the surface. Together, we will explore why these distress behaviours occur with clear examples, look at the foundations of boundary setting, reflect on why standard advice around consequences may not always help, and learn how rethinking our responses can foster safety, trust, and well-being.
- What to expect (The Vibe): An interactive, collaborative workshop format designed to give you a clearer lens for understanding behaviour and practical tools to support both your child and yourself. The course runs from 10:00am – 12:00pm, followed by lunch and dedicated time for your questions. Each in-person course has a maximum of 15 attendees.
- Who it’s for: This session is specifically for parents and carers navigating autism and neurodiversity. We apologise, but these courses are not suitable for children and there is no childcare available. This is a chance for you to learn practical tools, build family relationships, and chat with people who get it!
- Date & Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm (Plus lunch and questions afterwards)
🎤 About Our Presenter / Guest Speaker
Who is joining us: Laura (Laura ND Nurse)- What they will be sharing: Insights into understanding distress behaviours as communication, practical approaches to boundary setting, and tools to navigate moments of distress while building trust and safety.
- About the Presenter: Laura is Autistic/PDA and ADHD herself. She is a Nurse, Sleep Consultant, Advocate, and a parent to two neurodiverse children—so she is living the life and talking the talk. While her speciality is supporting Autistic/ADHD people, her teaching is created in a way that can be helpful for all families as the foundations centre around mental health, strengthening family relationships, and self-advocacy.
- Website / Further Info: www.laurahellfeld.co.uk
🤝 Funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum
Our Funding Partners: We’re proud to share that these Laura ND Nurse workshops have been fully funded by Leeds Parent Carer Forum, ensuring parents and carers can access this valuable, identity-affirming support. Their commitment helps make these sessions inclusive and accessible for families navigating autism and neurodiversity.
🚗 Getting There & Arrival
- Parking Details: There is plenty of parking available around the back of the building (including designated Blue Badge spaces) as well as additional street parking on the roads surrounding the venue.
- Finding the Little Hiccups Group: Look out for the Little Hiccups signs and team members on arrival to direct you straight to our workshop space.
🚶 The Venue Space & Seating
- Room Layout & Lifts: The venue and course space are entirely on one level (ground floor).
- Access Requirements: Please do let us know if you have any specific access requirements so we can ensure you are fully accommodated.
🚽 Toilets & Accessibility
- Standard Accessible Toilet: Yes, accessible disabled toilets are available on-site.
- Changing Places Toilet: Yes, this venue features a full Changing Places toilet facility.
🍰 Atmosphere, Food & Drinks
- Lighting & Noise Levels: The workshop is limited to a maximum of 15 attendees to maintain a comfortable, relaxed, and conversational environment.
- Food & Refreshments: Lunch will be provided directly after the workshop session. When booking your ticket, please ensure you let us know of any dietary requirements you may have.
⛑️ Safety & Venue Details
- Little Hiccups Staff: As always, our staff and volunteers will be on hand to make sure everyone feels welcome. If you are nervous about coming alone, drop us a message beforehand and we will make sure someone meets you at the door!
🎟️ How to Book
Spaces are limited to a maximum of 15 attendees so we can keep the workshop size relaxed and comfortable. Please book your spot below:
Important Booking Information:
Bookings close exactly one week before the event to allow for catering and session planning. Please note that our events are heavily subsidised by Little Hiccups to support our community. Because the charity covers the remaining costs based on our final confirmed numbers (such as venue hire, lunch, refreshments, and presenter fees), we kindly ask that you let us know if your plans change. If you can no longer make it, please cancel your places by emailing events@littlehiccups.co.uk so we can reallocate the spots and prevent charity funds from being lost.
If you have any questions, dietary requirements, or are unsure about attending for the first time, please reach out to us at
events@littlehiccups.co.uk. We’d love to have you join us!
Book here: https://www.littlehiccups.co.uk/educational-informative/
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.
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When: Every Wednesday
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Time: 11:45 am – 12:30 pm
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Location: Lovabelle, Visage House, South Shields
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Cost: Free for eligible families
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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/
Come and join us once a month at Toby House for our Time to Talk sessions.
This group is for parents/carers only of children and young people of ALL ages. The group is free to attend and is for parents & carers who live in Northumberland and their child has a diagnosis of Autism. It is a chance to come along and meet and chat with other families as well as our experienced family support team.
Sessions are held at Toby House, Earth Balance Bedlington, Northumberland, NE22 7AD.
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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
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
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!
Here at the centre, we run course on moving and handling throughout the year. The courses are suitable for anyone working within the Health, Education or Social care sectors, especially for those wishing to be trainers themselves. Whilst our courses are not Accredited with a university or education centre, our trainer Julia Love, is an Advanced Member of National Back Exchange, a qualification recognizing a higher level of education, experience and competence in the industry. https://nationalbackexchange.glueup.com/membership/16523/apply/
This comprehensive 5-day course follows the National Back Exchange guidelines. It will give delegates the skills and knowledge they need to create and deliver their own moving and handling training in their own setting. It will also enable them to support and supervise their own staff in the future. The course includes practical sessions and offers continued support to delegates after the completion of the course.
📅 Date & Time
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Date: 2nd Wednesday of the month
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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:
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FREE to attend.
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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