Type of service: Training providers, Play and leisure, Social groups, Training providers

Service URL: http://www.theyardscotland.org.uk

The Yard is an award-winning charity running adventure play services for disabled children, young people and their families. It offers creative, adventurous indoor and outdoor play experiences in a well-supported environment, encouraging disabled children to have fun, take risks and build friendships. It also supports the whole family by offering information, advice and a place to relax with other families, always without judgement.

Since 1986, set up by a group of parents, teachers and social workers who recognised the need for a safe place to play, The Yard's services have grown significantly, but retain their ethos of child-centred and child-led play.

Their flagship Edinburgh centre, which runs services seven days a week, was refurbished by BBC DIY SOS The Big Build in 2012. Weekend play sessions at The Yard Dundee began in 2015, followed by The Yard Fife in 2016. In 2017, the charity supported over 1,000 families across the east of Scotland.

The Yard Dundee runs family play sessions every weekend. New members are welcome any Saturday or Sunday for their first free taster visit.

Any referral type accepted. Volunteers can be accepted.

Aimed at: Child , Young person

Referral Sources: NHS and Private

Covers: City of Edinburgh, Dundee City, Fife

Specialisms: Has autism-specific elements

Other specialisms: Challenging behaviour, Learning disability