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
Due to the Red Alert Weather Warning and very high temperatures expected over the next few days Swings & Smiles has made the decision to close earlier in order to prioritise the wellbeing and safety of the children, young people, and our team
.
On Wednesday and Thursday (24-25 June 2026) we are moving sessions to earlier in the day to take advantage of the cooler weather and amalgamating sessions where possible so that the centre can close at 2pm. All families with bookings will be updated directly.
Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
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:
News
Fox's unbelievable ultramarathon for Swings & Smiles
Never before run a marathon and now doing 250km is 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".
Please support if you can - donate, like, share and follow him on social media.
Donate via Fox's just giving page for Swings & Smiles
Next time you shop, let the penny drop!
Every time you shop online, your retailers could donate to Swings & Smiles for FREE!
Did you know that whenever you buy anything online – from your weekly shop to your annual holiday – you could be raising free donations for Swings & Smiles with easyfundraising?
There are over 8,000 retailers on board ready to make a donation – including eBay, Argos, John Lewis & Partners, ASOS, Booking.com and M&S – and it won’t cost you a penny extra to help us raise funds.
All you need to do is:
1. Go to https://www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/swings-and-smiles/ and join for free.
2. Every time you shop online, go to easyfundraising first to find the site you want and start shopping.
3. After you’ve checked out, the retailer will make a donation to Swings And Smiles at no extra cost to you whatsoever!
There are no catches or hidden charges to you for these free donations. from your retailers.
Weekly shop? Prepping for your summer holiday? Bulk buying ice-creams right now? Try it - Thank you for your support.
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.
