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Summer Fun and Support for Families with SEND in Gloucestershire
Published
This summer, there will be a range of inclusive, welcoming activities designed with children and young people with additional needs and disabilities and their families in mind. In this article, we hear from Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum (GPCF) about some of the activities on offer around the county. From relaxed Stay and Play sessions to supportive peer groups and fun family days, there are plenty of opportunities to connect, feel supported, and enjoy accessible experiences together—alongside extra help through the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme, where needed.
For many families of children with additional needs, the summer holidays can bring both opportunities and challenges, especially when trying to find activities that are inclusive, accessible and suitable for everyone. This summer, a variety of inclusive events, activities and support services are available across Gloucestershire to help families spend quality time together and access opportunities that meet their needs.
Stay and Play sessions
Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum (GPCF) will be hosting two free Stay and Play sessions for Parent Carers, children with additional needs and their siblings.
Tuesday, 28 July from 10.00am – 2.00pm at Beechenhurst in Coleford, Forest of Dean
- Alongside the venue’s playground, café and Changing Places toilet there will be outdoor activities.
Thursday, 27 August from 10.00am – 2.00pm in Pittville Park, Cheltenham
- Families will be able to enjoy games and activities, as well as the children’s play area, café and toilet facilities.
Peer support sessions
Beacon Children’s Centre, Hilltop Children’s Centre, River Children’s Centre and Lighthouse Children’s Centre
GPCF will also be running peer support sessions in partnership with Gloucestershire Gateway Trust over the summer holidays for any Parent Carers looking for support. These sessions are drop-in, and children are welcome to attend.
Further information can be found on the Gloucestershire Parent Carer Forum Facebook page.
You’re Welcome Activity Finder
Families looking for inclusive activities and places to visit can also explore Active Impact’s You’re Welcome Gloucestershire website. The site includes an easy-to-use events calendar where you can search for inclusive clubs, groups, social events and family-friendly places to visit. You can filter activities by access requirements, interests or location, and every listing includes accessibility information to help families find what works best for them. The service is free to use and suitable for all ages.
Family Hubs
The Gloucestershire Family Hubs are also offering family fun over the summer.
Aspire Foundation – Cheltenham and Tewkesbury
Tuesday, 21 July at Brockworth Children’s Centre
Tuesday,18 August at Gardners Lane Children’s Centre
Aspire Foundation will be holding two Family Fun Days packed with activities for children up to 11 years old. More details can be found on the Aspire Foundation Facebook Page and website Aspire Foundation.
Gloucestershire Gateway Trust – Gloucester City and the Forest of Dean
Monday, 27 July Family Activity Day at The Link, Matson Avenue, Matson
Further information is available on their Gloucestershire Gateway Trust Facebook Page and website: Gloucestershire Gateway Trust.
Family Action – Stroud and The Cotswolds
Families can also find activities taking place throughout the summer in Stroud and The Cotswolds via Family Action’s website Family Action and Facebook page.
Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme
Finally, the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme is returning this summer, providing enriching activities and nutritious food for children and young people receiving benefits-related free school meals.
The SEND specialist HAF community connector can offer SEND families priority booking for their children and young people prior to booking being made open to the public (on 6 July) and assist with transport and one-to-one/two-to-one support and alternative food arrangements if required.
Please complete the Summer 2026 Expression of Interest Form to enable the SEND specialist HAF community connector to book an event for you. Public bookings open soon on 6 July, has priority booking for SEND families and will be able to book for you.
Note: You will be prompted to either login or sign up to our website to complete the form, this helps us keep our website more secure and report number of members.
The Specialist SEND Community Connectors are Parent Carer Alliance CiC, you can contact them in the following ways:
Email: HAF@parentandcareralliance.org.uk
Phone: 01452 452872. 9:00am - 4:30pm Monday to Friday.
https://www.parentandcareralliance.org.uk/haf
🗓️ OrchardFest 2025, Lydbrook
Saturday, 15 August, 2:00pm - 10:30pm.
Accompanying carers get free entry with proof of carer status (this must be provided on door)
A fully-accessible music festival, designed especially for people with learning disabilities.
Orchard Trust Smallholding, Upper Stowfield, Lower Lydbrook, GL17 9PD.
The Library Challenge
Starting on 11 July, this year's Challenge is around time travel and, like the libraries, inclusive.
You can find out more about Parent Carer Community Support plus Workshops and also give your feedback about services here