Thomley Activity Centre [ A recreational facility for disabled children, their families, friends, schools and groups ]

History

“It is so hard to find somewhere that isn’t judgmental, where you can have the freedom to get on and do whatever is appropriate. It’s a shame there aren’t more places and people like yourselves.” - Parent
“We love Thomley. The unobtrusive support means a lot, as we parents are usually treated like a bolt on extra at appointments. It is a relief to be treated as a member of my own family in my own right.” - Parent

Thomley Activity Centre was launched in July 2002 by parents of children with autism. These parents found that their children were excluded from other play-schemes due to unavailability of appropriate activities and facilities, as well as their child’s considered inappropriate behaviour. These parents also observed the need to cater for the siblings of disabled children as they are often disadvantaged by the fact that attention is focused on the disabled child. In response to their own experiences, they were eager to lessen the feeling of isolation in the challenges of bringing up disabled children.

Jeremy Irons opens Thomley in 2002

The founding Trustees consequently established Thomley Activity Centre as a recreational and educational facility for disabled children (0-16 yrs), their families, schools and friends.

Due to the uniqueness of the centre, children come from 19 different counties to use the facilities offered and the number of children visiting has grown by 72% over the past 5 years, with 5,863 visits from almost 2,000 different children in 2009.