Extra Support

Family Fund Through the Support for Families with Disabled Children programme you can apply for items that will help meet your child’s additional support needs and make family life easier. You can request a kitchen appliance like a fridge, cooker, or washing machine, clothing or bedding for your child, sensory or play equipment, technology items such as tablets and laptops, or even a much-needed family break.

Manchester Parent Champions! The Parent Champions are parents who have experienced and/or know about the range of services and support available through the Local Offer. They are well-placed to tell other parents about the Local Offer and the help and support that’s out there.

SPACE is a parent-led group that aims to offer unique support sessions for parents/carers of children with Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities (SEND) – a group with a difference.

Talbot House is a support service for parents and carers of people who have learning disabilities who live in the Manchester area.

The A World UK is a charity that bring the autistic community together, to encourage new relationships to be made and provide a safe and non-judgemental environment for others. Our services are beneficial for the whole family, all of our events encourage sibling participation as we understand that trying new things can be difficult and overwhelming for individuals, but also sibling participation can help to build relationships.

Boomerang Play Centre Boomerang has been specifically designed to cater for children with special needs. We have three rooms available all offering a different sensory environment that gives everyone a multi- sensory experience.

The Sunflower Scheme A simple tool for you to voluntarily share that you have a disability or condition that may not be immediately apparent – and that you may need a helping hand, understanding, or more time in shops, at work, on transport, or in public spaces.

Access Card serves as a recognised proof of your requirements, eliminating the need for repeated explanations at different venues. This recognition is crucial in building a more inclusive environment, as it encourages venues and service providers to be proactive in their accessibility efforts. The card not only supports your individual needs but also contributes to a broader movement towards better accessibility for all.

Children Today At Children Today we are proud to help change the lives of children and young people with disabilities across the UK every day and we now need your help more than ever. By providing specialised equipment and support to children and families in need, we aim to help give these children more independence and the best possible quality of life as well as help minimise social isolation and improve their physical and mental health.

Carers Card Our card helps you save with exclusive discounts, provides peace of mind with emergency contact details, and offers access to our Wellbeing Hub, free events, the Carer Circle tool, and much more through our app. Available to all unpaid and paid carers.

Short Breaks A short break can range from an activity which lasts one or two hours, or a few days away from home. It includes day, evening, overnight, weekend and holiday activities. These activities provide a positive experience for the child as well as giving parents and carers a break from their caring duties.

Merlin's Magic Wand Magical Days Out offer an unforgettable day of fun and adventure, gifted to children and families who need them most through our incredible partner organisations. We bring the magic to children facing challenges, from illness and disabilities to various forms of adversity. Our goal is to create joy and lasting memories for those who need it most.

Great Minds Together support children and young people with special educational needs and social, emotional and mental health needs as well as their families and the professional networks around them.