"In half term we got our golden tickets and went on a coach trip to Cadbury World in Birmingham!

It was a marvellous day out with lots of happy and chocolaty faces on the trip home. The children were all exceptionally well behaved – even on the coach (partly due to the activity packs that our volunteers put together for them).

The children’s ages varied from 5 to 15 years old with varying needs and conditions and Cadbury’s managed to entertain them all. There was something for everyone – demonstrations, a short ride, 4D shows and mascots. The children all loved the huge outdoor play area, which even had a wheelchair accessible section…. But my favourite part was the free samples!  

Staff at Cadbury couldn’t do enough for us, they checked with families at every stage of the tour and told us what to expect at each stage (giving us the option to miss out any sections that might not be suitable for our young people).

On the coach, there was a real sense of community – children wanted to sit with their friends rather than parents, which meant parents could take the opportunity to talk to each other. One parent explained to us that this was the only time she had taken her children out during half term – she had been too worried about being able to cope with them alone… But, she knew that on a Little Miracles trip, she wouldn’t have to be alone – she would always have our support"

"Our Friday Night Clubs provide fun and accessible activities for children and young people (0-25years) with additional needs, disabilities and life-limiting conditions.

On the second and fourth Friday of each month, we meet at the Ashwood Church in Kirkby-in-Ashfield and set out a range of activities to suit the needs and interests of the children and young people. These include: sensory items; toys; board/ table-top games; dress up; and crafts. We also use a large screen to project family favourite shows and brush up on our dance skills- with the help of online tutorials. There is also a soft play area for the younger children. The children and young people also get a light meal (e.g. sandwiches, crisps, fruit, and yogurt), for this, we have them all sit down together if possible.

Friendships have been formed at our club and these span across the age ranges: many now see each other outside of our group. The same goes for the parents, they stay to the club and, whilst watching their own children grow from these positive interactions, they can create their own networks – gaining support, advise and understanding from other parents in similar situations"