

Swings & Smiles is committed to improving the quality of life for children with disabilities and their families.
Through our inclusive play sessions, our carefully delivered respite care, and our ongoing emotional support, we work to create a space that is not only safe and welcoming but genuinely life enhancing for every child and family who walks through our doors. We believe that children flourish when they are given the freedom to explore, connect, and grow in an environment that celebrates who they are and what they enjoy. Our sessions offer opportunities for meaningful play, confidence building, and social connection, all shaped with care and understanding so that every child feels valued and able to take part in ways that suit them best.
Staying safe in the heat
Our plans and NHS guidance
Following the recent Heat Health Alerts and high temperatures, we'll continue to monitor conditions at our sites throughout the summer - the wellbeing and safety of children, young people and our team will always be our priority.
We know how important our services are, particularly when other provision may be affected by the weather, so our aim is to remain open wherever possible. If we have to adjust our timetable or services in any way, we'll contacta our booked in families directly via phone, email and 'Famlyapp', and share broader updates here on our website.
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The NHS and GOV.UK Beat the Heat campaign have resources which may help when talking about staying safe in hot weather with your child or young person (be warned – the pictures include an ice lolly, so be prepared for requests!)
Staying safe:​ stay hydrated, wear sunscreen and a sun hat and stay in the shade or indoors to keep cool.
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Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
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Heat exhaustions does not usually need emergency medical help if you can cool down
within 30 minutes. If it turns into heatstroke, it needs to be treated as an emergency.
For information on symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke, what you can do to
cool down, and in case of emergency, please see the NHS's advice:
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News

Fox's unbelievable ultramarathon for Swings & Smiles
Having never before run a marathon, Fox has completed an epic 250km over 6 days across the Gobi Desert in Mongolia. ​
Read all about Fox's epic challenge and watch the gorgeous video where his niece Marcie talks about life with her big sister Georgia and why he has chosen to do this for Swings & Smiles and PALS - two charities that support Georgia and her family, "providing support, friendship, laughter and opportunities that make a real difference to Georgia’s life".
​​With the wonderful generosity of sponsors, Fox raised an incredible total of £22, 067
​If you are a friend, family or supporter of Swings & Smiles and would like to take on a challenge of your own, get in touch for support. Contact Rachel@swingsandsmiles.co.uk
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Case Studies
Many different children and their families come to Swings & Smiles, each with their own unique experiences, challenges, and hopes. Some join us seeking a safe place to play, others looking for understanding, connection, or simply a moment to breathe. Every family arrives with a story that matters, and every child brings their own spark, personality, and potential.
Below, you can discover some of these powerful stories and the meaningful moments that have unfolded through our sessions and support. You will see how play, care, and compassion can open the door to confidence, joy, and a sense of belonging. You will also see how families who once felt isolated or overwhelmed were able to find comfort, community, and hope.


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