Features

Better together

Since 2021, The Together Space has run pop-up play events for disabled and non-disabled children – founder Alexandra Martinelli-Kinmouth and Emily Maben write about their story so far

Children at a Together Space pop-up event, Credit: Together Space

Since our 2021 launch, ‘The Together Space’ has been making a significant impact in Waltham Forest, providing inclusive opportunities for children, families, and young adults wit special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

What started as a small initiative has now reached over 5,000 people, thanks to our monthly pop-up play events and weekly fitness sessions for SEND young adults.

What makes us so unique is our mission to break down barriers and remove stigma by creating mixed ability play sessions for disabled and non-disabled families.

By tailoring activities towards children with disabilities, all children can grow up together while celebrating differences. We dream of creating a world where disabled and non-disabled people are equally valued.

Currently a community interest company, we will soon transition into a full-fledged charity. Together, we are determined to reach even more SEND families, offering them much-needed support, safe spaces for play, and opportunities to connect with others facing similar challenges.

The Together Space also offers paid employment opportunities to young adults with learning disabilities at each event.

Recently, we won funding from The National Lottery. This will allow us to continue hosting our much-loved monthly pop-up events but we need more money to ensure we can offer a wealth of services for the community.

For example, we would love to bring back our popular sibling art workshops, and start an inclusive drama club. One of the biggest hurdles we currently face is finding a permanent home that has outdoor space, parking, and easy access for everyone.

As the search for such a space continues, we remain optimistic but realistic about the challenges ahead. We’ve come so far, but
we know there’s still a long road ahead. With the support of our community, we can continue to make a real difference in the lives
of SEND families.

To find out more visit their website


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