Go-To Guide for SEND activities in our Local Area
Finding suitable days out and activities for children and young people with SEND can be challenging, and information is often spread across different places. To make things easier, we’ve brought together a helpful list of local groups, sessions and organisations across Stourbridge, Dudley and Kidderminster – including some of our favourite day-out SEND offerings. We hope this guide helps families discover new opportunities, and we always welcome suggestions to add in future.
KIDDERMINSTER AREA
Wyre Forest Leisure Centre
SEND swimming lessons, Monday to Friday, 5.55pm – 6.25pm.
Supportive swimming lessons in a quieter environment led by professional instructors to allow your little one to effectively learn at their own pace.
The World Outside Forest School:
Don’t run anything specifically for SEN, however, due to the nature of Forest School it is well suited to a lot of SEN, as they have space to stand away from the group, they are not required to take part in set activities and as Forest School is child-led they can choose the activity they want to do and how long they spend doing it. They have space to be away from the group and observe and watch until they feel comfortable to join in. Additionally, parents can easily move away from the group without causing too much disruption or feeling embarrassed.
Sandra who runs The World Outside Forest School recommends these links to read how Forest School can be great for those with SEN;
https://forestschoolassociation.org/forest-school-autism-a-review-by-jon-cree/
Anchors Away:
Offer a SEN session on a Sunday Morning 9 – 10am, which is a quiet session that siblings can come to too. They also offer exclusive hire for SEN parties adapted to suit individuals needs.
Kidderminster & District Youth Trust:
(KDYT) run a number of youth activities, at Bromsgrove Street.
Fusion Group is held at Youth House, Kidderminster on Tuesdays, 6.30pm – 8.30pm and is for children aged 13 – 25 who need additional support, this might be that they prefer a quieter club, are a little anxious or have a diagnosed special education need. They have an LGBTQ+ club that also runs on a Tuesday 6:30pm to 8:30pm and they host a Youth Club on Thursday evenings for children from year 6 to 18 from 6pm – 8pm, this club can be busy and noisy. No referral is needed but parents are encouraged to attend to sign young people as members, especially if there are important things KDYT need to be aware of. Clubs are term time only, in school holidays they run a range of day trips, with some spaces currently supported by HAF.
Hansel and Gretel Group:
A registered charity supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities and their families in the Wyre Forest area. The group offers a warm, friendly environment where families can meet others, share experiences, build friendships and reduce feelings of isolation. Their Saturday Family Club takes place at Kidderminster Youth House and provides relaxed, inclusive sessions with activities suitable for a wide range of needs. The group can be contacted by phone, through Facebook, or via their website for more information about upcoming sessions and support opportunities.
Worcestershire Libraries:
Worcestershire libraries are autism-friendly. They have ear defenders and designated quiet areas if it all gets too much. They also have Booktrust baby packs for VIP children and those with additional needs.
Wyre Forest Trampers:
Visitors with permanent or temporary limited mobility can hire one of our Trampers.
Trampers are off-road mobility scooters, which are easy to use and able to tackle a range of surfaces and gradients come rain or shine. Our Tramper is suitable for:
- Easy Access, Giants and Arboretum Trails
- Our extensive network of forest roads
Our tramper hire is available thanks to our partnership with the Countryside Mobility Scheme. You do not have to be registered disabled to hire a Tramper.
SociABLES Hub:
SociABLEs Hub is a registered charity providing services in support of people with Disabilities and Health Conditions including Mental Health. We are based in Bewdley but serve the whole of Worcestershire and other residents out of the county, also travel to our service.
SociABLEs Hub provides activities to support transition from ages 14 years to adults of all ages and this includes social and friendship clubs, outings and activities, sleepover clubs/overnight breaks away/holidays/residentials, as well as supported work placements, work-based skills workshops and PA support.
Services are provided all year round, 7 days per week and are usually funded by direct payments although where funding allows, we offer subsidised or sponsored places for those in need.
Stourport Riding Centre:
The centre offers ‘Riding for the Disabled’ horse riding lessons. They meet weekly during term time. The centre was awarded its Riding for the Disabled Accessibility Mark in 2014.
SENstation:
A small family business that offers a range of services that appeal to children and adults with special education needs and disabilities. We do this by creating opportunities for individuals to stimulate their senses and practice other key developmental skills, by providing different sensory activities, catering for a range of sensory needs and delivering services that are in are much needed at an affordable price.
Crackerjack:
A Kidderminster-based charity that supports children with disabilities and their families providing specialist equipment and respite breaks.
STOURBRIDGE AREA
SEND swimming lessons at Crystal Leisure Centre:
Recognising the importance of swimming and water safety for people with disabilities, Crystal Leisure Centre are now running STA’s Rockhopper series . This is the most comprehensive and progressing programme for people aged 3 to 15 years with disabilities. Please note – Due to popular demand, a waiting list is now in place.
The Rockhopper series is an exciting programme consisting of 9 awards which introduce learners with disabilities to the joy of water. The series develops water confidence and water skills as well as increasing water safety awareness and knowledge.
Kids Orchard Centre:
Part of a national charity that strives to develop services for disabled young people in partnership with parents and is committed to working to ensure children maximise their skills and fulfil their potential, irrespective of their impairment or disability.
Activities include after school clubs from ages 5 to 12 years, transitions group and youth clubs ages from 13 years to 25 years, Direct payments and Home Support. We also provide a family session on Saturday’s, holiday play schemes, events and themed trips.
Baby Glow Bugs:
A sensory experience for little ones. Sessions take place in a darkened room and enable you and your little one to explore an array of light and sensory activities, with a different theme each week. Classes are held in Stourbridge, Bromsgrove and Wall Heath.
ODEON cinema:
Specially-adapted screenings – The typical cinema environment can be stressful for guests with autism, sensory difficulties or learning impairments. We’re delighted to host special autism friendly screenings one Sunday morning each month at over 90 cinemas across the UK and ROI. At our autism friendly screenings, we keep the house lights on throughout the film, lower the audio volume, remove the advertisements and trailers before the film and open the cinema doors early so guests have time to get used to the surroundings.
Boing Zone:
Offer a SEN session every Sunday 4.30pm – 5.30pm and Thursdays in term-time 12.00pm- 1.00pm. These sessions provide exclusive jump time for our jumpers with special needs from age 5 to 15years (over 18s allowed on Thursdays only). One carer jumps free with each special needs jumper. One additional sibling/extra carer will also be allowed but must stay with SEN jumper at all times. Separate jumping will not be allowed. Lighting and music will be SEN friendly. Members of the public will not be allowed admission and proof of SEN may be required. Please book online before arrival as places will be limited to ensure comfort and safety.
Kewford Eagles SAS Inclusive Football:
Held on Sundays, 9.30 – 11.30am, at Wall Heath. The club is run by specially qualified coaches. Contact Simon: supportedability@kewfordeagles.co.uk. Ages from 7 to 57!
- Grandparents Cuppa & Chat; 2nd Tuesday of the month 9.30 – 11.30am
- Carers Cuppa & Chat (for carers of children) ; Wednesdays 9.30 – 11.30am
- Total CHAOS!; Saturdays 10am – 12pm (children 5 – 12 with disabilities and siblings, stay & play)
- Extreme CHAOS!; 1st and 3rd Tuesday of the month 7 – 8.30pm (for age 13+ with disabilities or additional needs)
Based in Stourbridge, serving the Dudley Borough.
DUDLEY AREA
Dudley SENDIASS:
Each half term Dudley SENDIASS hosts a range of workshops for parents of children with SEND and Young People with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disability) to access. These workshops cover a range of topics and aim to provide information to enable you as a parent/carer or Young Person to understand the processes and be involved.
Lifted Spirits:
A support group for families and carers of children and young people with disabilities, held at Brierley Hill Methodist Church. Contact Katie/Rachel via the Facebook page Lifted Spirits Dudley and Surrounding areas or email: liftedspiritsdudley@outlook.com.
Sycamore Centre:
Unlock a world of fun at our Inclusive Play Session in Dudley! Tailored for children with disabilities, our Adventure Playground invites every child to experience the magic of play. From the sensory delight of water play to the thrill of climbing, zooming on pedal go-karts, and expressing creativity through arts and crafts – every moment is designed for inclusivity and fun! Our trained staff ensures a supportive environment, fostering friendship and smiles. Limited spaces are available, reserve your spot now for a day of laughter and shared adventures!
All Stars Youth Club:
All Stars Youth Club is a non-profit organisation that caters for children and young adults (secondary school age above) (11+) with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities based within the Dudley borough. We believe that every member should have a space and a nurturing environment to allow them to develop as individuals and this is what we aim to do, by providing a range of activities by our volunteer staff to ensure that members will achieve and be the best they can be.
Family Swim and soft play at Dudley Leisure Centres:
Planet Play soft play sessions take place at Duncan Edwards and Halesowen leisure centres.
- Halesowen session takes place every Monday from 4.15pm – 5.45pm
- Duncan Edwards session take place every Wednesday from 5pm – 6pm
Both sessions are suitable for children under 11 years of age with disabilities, special educational needs, ASD and their siblings.
DUNCAN EDWARDS
Term time Saturday fun session takes place all year round on a Saturday from 1.15pm to 2.15pm. This is not included in free swimming and is chargeable during both term time and school holidays.
During school holidays in addition to the above chargeable session, a session is offered on a Wednesday usually from 3.10pm to 5pm, however sometimes the time can change slightly if there are NPLQ courses taking place. The Wednesday school holiday session is included in the free swimming initiative.
HALESOWEN
Term time Every Saturday 2.30pm to 3.45pm
During school holidays Saturday 2.30pm to 3.45pm – this session is included in the free swimming initiative.
DAYS OUT:
West Midlands Safari Park
Occasionally offers Quiet Mornings designed to provide a calmer and more accessible experience for visitors with sensory needs. During these sessions, the park opens earlier for guests to explore the Safari Walk area with reduced noise and minimal stimulation, with music and immersive sound effects paused for a period of the morning. A quiet space is also made available, offering sensory crafts and opportunities to engage with the Education Team, as well as a calm area to take a break if needed. Guests attending a Quiet Morning are also given flexible access to the Safari Drive, helping families plan their visit at a pace that feels comfortable. Dates and details vary, so visitors are encouraged to check the park’s website for upcoming sessions.
PLAY @ Lower Drayton Farm:
Has a relaxed session – visit after school on Fridays for a limited capacity quieter PLAY session. Starts at 3pm until 6pm. The farm also offers SEN sessions on Sunday mornings from 9am during school breaks – SEN families can explore while it is quieter and choose when they leave as the sessions get busier toward the afternoon. Please check online booking for dates and further details.
Dudley Zoo & Castle
Has been officially accredited as autism friendly and is recognised for its commitment to creating a more inclusive experience for visitors with sensory needs. The zoo has introduced a range of supportive features, including reduced-stimulation environments, sensory signage, social stories to help families prepare ahead of their visit, and sensory bags with ear defenders and fidget items available to borrow. Quiet areas are available on site, and the zoo also offers occasional pre-bookable Quiet Mornings with lowered noise levels and a calmer atmosphere for those who prefer a gentler experience. Families can check the zoo’s website for upcoming accessible sessions and further details about the support available during their visit.
Morning Explorers at ThinkTank:
If you’re an adult or child on the autistic spectrum or with other special needs and would prefer a quieter visit to Birmingham’s museums, join one of the Morning Explorers sessions at ThinkTank. It will open early for you and your family to explore in a quiet and welcoming environment. Held on selected dates, places must be pre-booked by calling 0121 348 8263 or through the event page on our website when we have a session listed.
Sealife Centre Birmingham:
‘Quiet at the Aquarium’ – First Sunday of every month, 9am-10am. With limited tickets available, to provide a quieter SEA LIFE experience that aims to provide a more comfortable visit for those with autism and other sensory requirements.
Lego Discovery Birmingham:
Enjoy the LEGOLAND Discovery Centre Birmingham with reduced capacity and no music for children with autism and sensory requirements, available on selected dates.
MAC Birmingham:
MAC is committed to offering a welcoming and accessible environment in which everyone can feel comfortable. MAC offers complimentary tickets to companions and carers assisting disabled customers for performances, cinema, talks and courses. There are Relaxed screenings of shows and films, BSL-interpreted performances and events, Audio Described and Closed Captions screenings, and accessible courses available. MAC is wheelchair accessible and has a Changing Places facility along with other accessible facilities. Their Touch Screen events are specially designed for children and young people with additional needs.
To make it as easy as possible for everyone to access MAC, you can now book accessible tickets online. Find out more about the accessible booking process here: https://macbirmingham.co.uk/accessbookings.
The Wildlife Trust:
Limited mobility needn’t mean missing out on nature. With many of our reserves equipped with accessible paths, lifts, sensory gardens, disabled facilities and buggy hire, nothing needs to hold you back from enjoying the great outdoors. All their paths that are wheelchair/buggy friendly are listed online, link above.
Other useful information:
CEA card:
The Card enables a disabled cinema guest to receive a complimentary ticket for someone to go with them when they visit a participating cinema. To apply visit https://www.ceacard.co.uk/apply. Applicants must be aged 8+.
National Trust: Essential Companion Card:
The Essential Companion card makes it simple to bring one or two carers or companions with you, free of charge. Just show the card when you arrive, and your carer(s) or companion(s) won’t need to pay an entry fee. To apply call 0344 800 1895.
Useful Links:
Worcestershire Council SEND Support
Worcestershire Council Family Support
Dudley Family Information Service
If you know of any relevant information, do let us know. Email us here.
