Can you help me find out what local families really want ?

[NatalieSIAN]

Hello all,

I hope you can help me.

I've just started working for a fantastic charity called The Three Wings Trust. I'm running activities for children with additional needs and their families. All of the activities are free.

Because I'm not local Im a bit worried/clueless about where to to leave posters etc letting people know about what we provide. Im really keen to get some new families involved. I need to know what they want/need.

To give you an idea at the moment I have a baby and toddlers group in Hampton, teenagers are group in Richmond and a primary school after school session in Hampton with music therapy running. Were starting a teenagers social group (to build independance) in Late September and offering free baby massage course in November. Were also running a childrens party in Half term and have a coach to take people to participate in the Thames Festival night parade.

ANY suggestions would be greatfully recieved.
Fingers crossed !
Natalie

This all sound really lovely Natalie. It's also great that you want feedback and ideas. You might want to consider some activities for children with very complex or severe needs as these children often can't access / don't really enjoy many of the activities that are provided by local authorities. I've had real difficulty finding suitable activities for my ds because he is severely autistic and can't cope with unstructured events like parties, cinema trips etc and really needs a safe space in which to enjoy himself.

Do you have a Carers Resource they usually keep a list of groups to tell families about. Also the local library and childrens centres for posters. Health Visitors esp if you have any SN ones. A poster at the hospital CDC. Local branches of charities eg for downs, autism etc. Post on Netmums local page. Some areas have a free magazine called Families which puts in details of local events. Contact local special schools.