The popular family support group run by Diverse Abilities, Dorset’s disability charity, has returned thanks to funding from the National Lottery’s Reaching Communities Fund.
The fortnightly sessions are a chance for parents to enjoy some refreshments and have a chat with others in similar situations to themselves. The sessions alternate between a coffee morning held at the Families Centre in West Moors and a chance to take part in an activity in the local area, such as a walk along the beach, afternoon tea or pamper sessions. There will also be parent training sessions from professionals to support parents and carers to understand their child’s additional needs.
Clare Rochford, the Children’s Team manager, said: “We are so pleased to finally welcome back families, as well as meet new ones. These sessions are a chance to meet other parents and carers in a safe and welcoming environment. As well as opportunities to just have a chat, there will be themed sessions to help parents with specific issues such as deputyships, will with trusts, benefit applications and more.”
A parent who attended a recent session said: “It was great to meet up with other parents. I really appreciated this relaxing, different kind of day. Enjoying a delicious cream tea, followed by a walk along the beach was the perfect combination.”
The sessions are open to parents and carers of any child with a disability and have proved to be a vital service to discuss issues and build a support network.
Visit diverseabilities.org.uk/familysupport for more information about the Family Support sessions and other ways that Diverse Abilities support the whole family.