Social Groups, Leisure and Well-being

Listed below are some groups that provide leisure activities. For details about resources for people when out and about such as Sunflower Lanyards, Max Cards, Autism Hour, Safe Places, Changing Places Toilets and more please click here.

Children and Young People:
1. Yorkshire Coast Families
2. S.E.N.S.E.S (Special Educational Needs Social and Emotional Support)
3. SEND Youth Club
4. Handy Tunes
5. Stay and Play (SEND HUBS)
6. Tiddlers (SEN sessions)
7. Cherry Pod Youth Club (The Parent Pod)
8. The Little Play Company (SEN Play Sessions)
9. SEND Softplay (SDSG and The Parent Pod)
10. Parent and Child AquaSensory (SDSG)
11. Sensory Swim Sessions (Scarborough Sports Village)
12. Chilled Banana (mindfulness and relaxation)
13. The Wave Project North Yorkshire (Surf therapy)
14. Coast Tuition and Coast Tuition Community
15. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)

Adults (all ages):
16. Scarborough Mencap: Gateway Club and Performance Group
17. Scarborough Railway Club Wednesday Night Disabled Disco
18. Accessible Swimming: Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group (SDSG)
19. Neurodiverse Inclusive Circuit Class (SDSG)
20. ScarBoccia Inclusive Sports
21. Activity Group: Steps2@Gallows
22. Bowls ‘n Buggies Indoor Bowling
23. IndepenDANCE
24. Stephen Joseph Theatre including Fuse Youth Theatre
25. Twilight Productions – DANCELIGHT
26. Religion/Churches: Mustard Seeds
27. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)

Beyond Scarborough:
28. Ryedale Special Families (RSF)
29. WHISH (Whitby Hidden Impairments Support and Help)

Children and Young People:

1. Yorkshire Coast Families

Yorkshire Coast Families: This is a local, parent-led charity that supports families and young people who have additional needs. They organise social opportunities such as days out at Dalby Forest, picnics, beach chalet days and much more. These are great times to meet other families and build supportive relationships.
Website: http://www.yorkshirecoastfamilies.org/
Phone: 01723 282101 07517352636
Email: mark@yorkshirecoastfamilies.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yorkshirecoastfamilies/

2. S.E.N.S.E.S

S.E.N.S.E.S
All S.E.N.S.E.S sessions are free of charge. There is no need for a diagnosis or referral.
Walk and Talk Scheme This is a meeting between Corrie of S.E.N.S.E.S and one family at a time. This is an opportunity to chat generally or give specific support needed. This meeting can be on a shared walk or in a cafe.
Parent and toddler group for children with additional needs including those who are on the autism spectrum. The group offers structured and free play including multi-sensory experiences, stories and singing. There is a communal drink and snack time. They meet on Tuesdays at Westway Open Arms, Eastfield, and on Fridays at Oasis Family Centre, Scarborough. Both sessions are from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Coffee Mornings for any parent or carer of a child with additional needs: These are held a couple of times a month at Westway Open Arms, Eastfield, from 9.30 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. Please see S.E.N.S.E.S Facebook page or website for this term’s dates. Children are welcome to attend.
Music Therapy: Welcoming, fun monthly music sessions at Westway Open Arms and Oasis Family Centre. These sessions are run by North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre. Check S.E.N.S.E.S Facebook page for updates.
Contact: Corrie Connell Email: corrie@sensesinscarborough.co.uk
Website: http://www.sensesinscarborough.co.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SENSES-in-Scarborough-396966047023777/

3. SEND Youth Club

SEND Youth Club – This youth club is for families of children with additional needs, including those who are on the autism spectrum. Parents and carers can chat to each other whilst the children have fun. They meet at Gallow’s Close Centre, on Mondays at 4.15 to 5.45. The cost is £3.50 per family up to 4 people and £1 for each additional child.
Further information: Gallow’s Close Community Centre 01723 378102 Email: gallowsclosecentre@gmail.com
Gallow’s Close Community Centre: https://www.facebook.com/GallowsCloseCentre/

4. Handy Tunes

Handy Tunes: This is a free, inclusive sing and sign group. It is for young people, their parents and carers. Activities include Makaton signing, singing, playing instruments and having fun. These sessions are held at Springhead School and run by North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre. Sessions are term-time only on Tuesdays 3.30 to 4.14 p.m.
Phone North Yorkshire Music Therapy Centre: 01653 628725 Email: enquiries@music-therapy.org.uk
Website: https://www.music-therapy.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nymusictherapycentre

5. Stay and Play (SEND Hubs)

Stay and Play: North Yorkshire Council SEND Communication and Interaction team work with children in the Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale area. They are hosting Stay and Play sessions once a month for children up to 11 years old. These take place at Eastfield Community Hall or Briercliffe Children’s Centre, Scarborough. There is no need to book. Session 1 is from 10.00 to 12.00 and Session 2 is from 13.00 to 15.00.
For more information contact Helen Hunter by email: helen.hunter@northyorks.gov.uk

6. Tiddlers

Tiddlers: This soft-play centre offers sessions for under 5’s with additional needs, including those who are on the autism spectrum. These sessions run on Thursday mornings from 9.30 to 11.00 a.m. at a cost of £5.95 for one child and their parent or carer. A place to connect with other grown-ups whilst the little ones explore the safe and fun environment. Kids and adult menus offer a range of food and drinks to buy. There is a maximum capacity of six children per session and sessions must be booked in advance.
Email: Hello@tiddlers.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiddlersscarborough?locale=en_GB
Website: https://tiddlers.co.uk/

7. Cherry Pod Youth Club (The Parent Pod)

Cherry Pod Youth Club: This is a youth club led by parents for children and young people with additional needs including those within the autism spectrum and those with complex needs. It is suitable for 5 to 18 year olds. They meet every Monday from 3.30 to 5.00p.m. at Cherry Tree Lodge in Scarborough. Parents/carers need to stay with children and young people. Siblings (5-19years) are welcome and also need to be supervised. Message or email to book a space.
Email: theparentpod@outlook.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Parent-Pod-61551858210555/

8. The Little Play Company ( SEN Play Sessions)

The Little Play Company: This is a children’s role play centre in Seamer. The centre offers SEN play sessions for children with additional needs, including those on the autism spectrum, and their siblings. The company welcomes children of all ages, whilst suggesting those from 1 – 6 years old might benefit most. There are many role play areas within the centre such as a village store, a village vets, a fire-station, a theatre, a construction site and a campsite. Role play supports the development of confidence as well as social, communication, thinking and physical skills and much more. There is a cafe for refreshments. Contact the company to find out when their next SEN play sessions will be held.
Phone: 01723 317478 Email: hello@thelittleplaycompany-scarborough.co.uk
Website: https://www.thelittleplaycompany-scarborough.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Little-Play-Company-Scarborough-100091325005249/

9. SEND Softplay (SDSG and The Parent Pod)

SEND Softplay: These softplay and bouncy castle sessions are held at Scarborough Sports Village as part of the iActive provisions. They are suitable for children 0-5 years. This is also an opportunity for parents, carers and guardians to meet others. Sessions are on Tuesdays from 1p.m. to 2.30 p.m. The cost is £2 per child. Just turn up or contact Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group to book places.
Email: contactus@sdsg.org.uk Phone: 01723 363600
Website: www.sdsg.org.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScarboroughDSG/

10. Parent and Child AquaSensory (SDSG)

Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group (SDSG) This group meet every second Saturday at Scarborough Sports Village, 5.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Members can swim with family and friends, take part in Aqua Relax and Sensory Play. Also they can have a quiet swim or develop swimming skills through taking part in award schemes. Children 4 – 18 years £3, adults £4. For more information contact SDSG.
Phone: Wendy 01723 363600 Email: contactus@sdsg.org.uk
Website: https://www.sdsg.org.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScarboroughDSG

11. Sensory Swim Sessions

Sensory Swim Sessions: These sessions at the Sports Village are for families and children to help build water confidence in a calm environment. Coloured lighting effects and sounds/music help to create the calm ambience. This is a visual, hearing and touch experience. Sessions are available often throughout the week, contact Scarborough Sports Village to find out more about Sensory Swim Sessions.
Phone: 01723 377500 Website: https://www.everyoneactive.com/centre/scarborough-sports-village/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eaScarbSports Email: scarboroughvillageinfo@everyoneactive.com

12. Chilled Banana (mindfulness and relaxation)

Chilled Banana: This organisation teaches children and young adults mindfulness and relaxation techniques with the aim of giving a toolkit for dealing with stress and anxiety. They run classes, workshops and one-to-one sessions. They also run online courses about teaching the techniques for parents, childcare providers and schools. Contact Hayley or Ben.
Email: Hayley@chilledbanana.co.uk Phone: 07864980250
Website: https://www.chilledbanana.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Chilledbananauk/

13. The Wave Project (Surf Therapy)

The Wave Project North Yorkshire: The aim of the project is to reduce anxiety and promote positive mental health in young people through surf therapy. They run a surf therapy programme in Scarborough which offers children and young people aged 8 to 21 the opportunity to participate in a specialised surf therapy session once a week for six weeks. Each young person is referred to the course from a school or local service (e.g. GP, social services, etc) and is paired with a volunteer surf mentor to receive one-to-one support appropriate to their needs for the duration of the course. Referral link is on the top right side of the website page.
Email: info@waveproject.co.uk
Website: https://www.waveproject.co.uk/project-locations/scarborough/?gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw6uWyBhD1ARIsAIMcADo6FCAGgvjj0vRroF2OSZooGpWjAeT84MzN81cakq9A4j3XOuUX7EIaAqh6EALw_wcB
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/159531144446193/

14. Coast Tuition and Coast Tuition Community

Coast Tuition and Coast Tuition Community: This private company works with learners of school age, school leavers and adult learners. They offer a wide range of provisions.
Family Hub Sessions: These community support sessions provide a fun and relaxing environment for children and their parents/carers. They include a hot meal and are an opportunity for children to play, socialise, be supported with their homework, and enjoy other activities. The adults can enjoy time with their children and be part of a supportive group for each other too. There are two sessions per week, one is in Eastfield on Tuesdays 3-5p.m. and the other is in Scarborough on Wednesdays 3-5p.m. These sessions are free to attend.
Kids Club: Holiday fun, games and activities in an educational setting is offered during part of the school holidays. Contact Coast Tuition for dates.
Contact: 07754 270274 or 07754 270276 Email: info@coasttuition.co.uk
Website: https://coasttuition.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coasttuition

15. Riding for the Disabled Association(RDA)

Riding for the Disabled Association: This organisation provides riding opportunities for people with disabilities, including those who are on the autism spectrum. Riding and interaction with horses can promote health, well-being and happiness. The RDA riding groups work with children and young people, as well as adults 18 and over. Below are some groups that are not too far from Scarborough but more groups can be found on the RDA website.
Priory View Group, Speeton, YO14 9TG, 01262 673612
Yorkshire Wolds Group, YO25 5NW, 01377 267984
Friars Hill Stables, YO62 6SL, 01439 771107
Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) Website: https://rda.org.uk/rda-groups/

Adults (all ages):

16. Scarborough Mencap: Gateway Club and Performance Group

Scarborough Mencap: This is an independent charity, affiliated with the Royal Mencap Society. Their provisions include a day service for adults, and out-of-hours services for children and adults with additional needs. They also offer social activities in the evenings at their base, Brookleigh, on Valley Road in South Cliff, Scarborough. These can be accessed by any adults with additional needs.
The Gateway Club: The range of activities include disco, arts and crafts, indoor bowling, healthy food preparation, visits from speakers, karaoke, films and games. This is on Tuesday evenings from 5.30 – 7.30 p.m. costing £5.00 per session.
Performance Group: Meet up with friends, socialize and enjoy activities. The club is part of Mencap’s Active Community Engagement project. There will be performance-based activities available such as drama, sign, music and movement. This is on Thursday evenings from 5.30 -7.30 p.m. costing £5.00 per session.
Phone: 01723 374819 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Scarborough-District-Mencap-819103218139925/
Website: http://scarboroughmencap.org.uk/ Email:hello@scarborough-mencap.org.uk

17. Scarborough Railway Club Wednesday Night Disabled Disco

Railway Club: This is a Wednesday evening social event based at the Railway Club next to the railway station. Adults with additional needs might enjoy having a quiet drink, dancing or sitting with friends in this social club environment. Non-members are welcome. Wheelchair accessible. Entrance is £1.20 or £8.00 for a yearly membership. Times are 6.00 to 9.00 p.m.
If you have questions you could leave a message on the Railway Club Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/664773570943625/
Phone: 01723 372849

18. Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group

Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group (SDSG) This group meet every second Saturday night at the pool in Scarborough Sports Village, 5.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Members can swim with family and friends, take part in Aqua Relax and Sensory Play, have a quiet swim or develop their swimming skills through taking part in award schemes. There are further social opportunities including social events, organised competitions and an annual awards presentation with a meal.
Phone: Call Wendy on: 01723 363600 email: contactus@sdsg.org.uk
Website: https://www.sdsg.org.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScarboroughDSG

19. Neurodiverse Inclusive Circuit Class (SDSG)

Neurodiverse Inclusive Circuit Class: These inclusive fitness circuit classes are aimed at neurodivergent attendees, including those on the autism spectrum. They are led by an instructor at Scarborough Sports Village, in the sports hall. The classes are for Scarborough Disabled Swimming Group members – the group can be joined online or at one of the sessions. They are held on Fridays from 10.25 to 11.00 a.m. Contact SDSG for further details.
Email: contactus@sdsg.org.uk Phone: 01723 363600
Website: www.sdsg.org.uk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScarboroughDSG/

20. ScarBoccia Inclusive Sports

Scarboccia Inclusive Sports: This group provides opportunities to play a range of indoor sports, including Boccia. Boccia is a form of indoor bowls using soft leather balls. It is an inclusive sport for all abilities, played from a seated position. Sessions cost £5.00. They are on Mondays 11.00 – 12.00p.m. at The Street, and Tuesdays 3.00 – 5.00 p.m. at Scarborough Sports Village. Be active, meet people and make friends. There are opportunities to play competitively if wished.
Contact: 01723 448815 email: scarboccia@gmail.com
Website: https://scarboccia.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScarBoccia/

21. Activity Group: Steps2@Gallows

Steps2@Gallows: This group is for adults with additional needs, including those who are on the autism spectrum. New members are welcome. Sessions cost £6 and are held fortnightly on Thursdays from 11.30 a.m. till 2.30 p.m. A light lunch and refreshments are included. Activities include games, Zumba, arts and crafts, exercises. Sessions are held by the Gallow’s Close Community Centre and are based there.
Further information: Gallow’s Close Community Centre 01723 378102 Email: gallowsclosecentre@gmail.com
Gallow’s Close Community Centre: https://www.facebook.com/GallowsCloseCentre/

22. Bowls ‘n Buggies Indoor Bowling

Bowls ‘n Buggies: This is a charity run by people who are interested in encouraging those with disabilities, including those who are on the autism spectrum, to play the game of black green bowls. The club members meet every Saturday from 10 to 12 noon at Scarborough Bowls Centre. Membership is open to all who have a disability. The first session is free.
Contact: 01723 353992 or 01723 871867 Website: https://scarboroughbowlscentre.co.uk/index.php/disabled/
Email: info@scarboroughbowlscentre.co.uk or brivasey@hotmail.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/scarboroughindoorbowlscentre/

23. IndepenDANCE

IndepenDANCE: They offer nights out with friends, toned-down music, sensory lights and dancing, exclusively for people with disabilities. Events are held on Mondays, 6 times a year, 7.00p.m. to 9.30p.m.in the Sanctuary bar on St. Nicholas Street in Scarborough. Check the Facebook page for details about the next event or call Kate on the number below.
Contact:07527 107444 Email: misskate-x@hotmail.co.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/misskatexx/?ref=br_rs

24. Stephen Joseph Theatre (SJT):

JOINING A THEATRE GROUP
The SJT co-ordinates a number of drama groups including FUSE Youth Theatre. This is an inclusive theatre group for young people who have additional needs, including those who are on the autism spectrum. The sessions encourage creativity, working together, communication and independent thinking. Members create and put on performances, too.
THEATRE SHOW AJUSTMENTS
There are two theatre spaces, one of which is the Theatre in the Round. The other space, called the McCarthy Theatre, is for theatre and cinema. SJT offer a number of adjustments that can help many people, including those who are on the autism spectrum.
Captioned performances: Spoken dialogue is displayed as text on a small screen.
Signed performances: Some performances have a BSL sign-language interpreter.
Audio described performances: Live audio commentary is interspersed in the actor’s dialogue, and transmitted by a discreet headset.
Touch tours of the stage set: These familiarisation tours are available 45 minutes before the performance begins. They need to be booked in advance.
Chilled and relaxed performances:These performances may include extra lighting, additional wheelchair spaces, and the freedom to move to alternative seating if required. The chilled and relaxed performances include a relaxed attitude to noise and movement in the auditorium.
Dementia-friendly performances: These involve some technical adaptations to the show, flexible seating options and a relaxed attitude to audience responses and movement in the auditorium. There will be provisions for a quiet room, clear visual markers and signage and additional staff to sensitively and respectfully welcome people living with dementia and their supporters to this show.
Ear-defenders: These can be borrowed free of charge from the theatre. Ask at the box office and collect from the kiosk in the upper foyer.
Recite Me: This is used by SJT to make the website more accessible. Click on ‘Accessibility Tools’ on the top right of their website pages.
TICKET PRICES
Concessions for Personal Assistants: See the information on the SJT Access Requirement Register
https://sjt.uk.com/your-visit/accessibility/access-requirement-register
Contact: 01723 370541 Email: enquiries@sjt.uk.com
Website: https://www.sjt.uk.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StephenJosephTheatre/

25. Twilight Productions – DANCELIGHT

Twilight Productions – DANCELIGHT: This entry level dance exercise class led by Clair is fully inclusive. It is easy to follow and mainly set to dance music from the 60’s and 70’s. Suitable for all, including those with any health issues, new to or returning to exercise or those who prefer to exercise at a more gentle pace. The class takes place in the Roscoe Studios on Roscoe Street. The class is 45 minutes long, with an option of a brew and socialising afterwards. £5.50 per class, cash only, and a minimum donation of £1.00 per cuppa. Classes are on Thursdays at 10 a.m. and 11.30 a.m. Contact Clair to find out more.
Phone: 01723 355251 Email: twilight.productions@yahoo.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/twilightproductions/?locale=en_GB

26. Religion/Churches:

Ebenezer Baptist Church, Mustard Seed: Mustard Seed is a group for people with additional needs. Meetings are once a month, usually on the third Saturday of the month. The group meets in Ebenezer Church Hall, 11.45 to 2.00 p.m. Meetings include sharing and prayers, singing, dancing, music, craft, stories, and begin with members having lunch together. Admission is £2 which includes lunch. Everyone is welcome. Each Sunday there is also a small Mustard Seed class at 10.30.
Contact: John Email: pastor@ebenezerbaptist.co.uk
Website: https://www.rockofhelp.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EbsBaptist

27. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)

Beyond Scarborough :

28. Ryedale Special Families (RSF)

Ryedale Special Families (RSF): This independent charity serves the Ryedale area in North Yorkshire. They provide family information, advice and support as well as social groups and domiciliary care for children and young people (to age 25) with disabilities, additional needs and illness. RSF works to uphold and strengthen the equal rights of families and young people with disabilities and special needs. They are a registered provider of care with North Yorkshire Council and are registered to provide domiciliary care with the CQC.
Phone: 01653 699000 Email: post@ryedalespecialfamilies.org.uk
Website: https://www.ryedalespecialfamilies.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RSFamilies/

29. WHISH (Whitby Hidden Impairments Support and Help)

WHISH: This parent-led support group welcomes children and families who have additional challenges, often hidden, including those on the autism spectrum. They offer a safe space free from judgement and provide support to members, including information, friendship or simply a place to be. They have a sensory room that is free for members or can be hired for a fee by the public for adults or children who might benefit. WHISH membership is £20 a year per household. This includes access to activities on and off the site, access to the WHISH community hub, free internet, refreshments and onsite information, free use of the lending library including education and sensory boxes, access to onsite courses such as ‘Understanding Autism’ and much more.
Phone: 01947 899685 or 07534117458 Email: whishgroup@gmail.com
Website: https://www.whishgroup.org.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhishCommunity/

If you know of further opportunities, please let us know:
scarboroughautismuk@gmail.com

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