For over thirty years, The Yard has been a second home for families with disabled children across Scotland to have fun, feel accepted, relax and make friends.  For many families, Christmas can be a very stressful time, particularly for families with disabled children. At Christmas time, The Yard becomes a magical and special safe haven for the whole family to play.

The Duke family use The Yard every week with Ethan (8), Aidan (6) and Ellie (4). Ethan has autism and loves the wide range of activities he can do when he is at The Yard. Their mum, Emma, says:

“We as a family love The Yard. It has helped us in so many ways, as we all feel welcome. All the staff are amazing with Ethan when he is having a difficult day. The kids love The Yard at Christmas, as there are themed activities. They enjoy the Christmas parties but there is no pressure to join in. He usually doesn’t cope with Christmas parties but the staff took the pressure away. They were so encouraging and understanding, and he was able to enjoy himself. He especially loved Santa - he was so understanding!

I love that The Yard is open through the Christmas period, as being stuck in the house is very frustrating for us and the family. We find it hard to access other places at Christmas, as Ethan doesn’t deal with waiting, crowds and noises. If he is finding things difficult, other facilities don’t have the knowledge or understand of Ethan’s needs, and we get awkward stares from other parents, which then puts pressure on us as parents.”

By giving The Yard a gift this Christmas, you help us continue to provide families like the Dukes a safe, non-judgmental and fun space for the whole family to spend time together over the holidays. 

£10 could pay for a new dressing up outfit so our young adventurers can let their imaginations run wild this Christmas.

£30 could pay for art, craft and baking supplies for our family sessions. At Christmas we like to make reindeer antlers and snowman cookies.

£50 could help with the cost of festive entertainment for our families at one of our seven Christmas parties.

£60 could pay it forward by covering the cost of one family's membership for the whole year ahead.

£100 could fund one of our play team leaders for a day during the Christmas holidays. They build imaginative play experiences and create a non-judgmental environment for families to relax.

£250 could fund a trip for two of our youth clubs to enjoy the Christmas markets, go ice skating or enjoy a hot chocolate with their friends.

Give your Christmas gift to The Yard

Thank you!