William
William has a congenital syndrome, but thanks to the support he receives at Kids playgroup, he has really flourished. His mum, Rachel, shares how our services have been a lifeline for their family.
Our 2024 recap
As we look back on 2024, we’re so proud of the incredible journey we’ve shared, supporting children and young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) and their families. Here are some of the year’s highlights!
Our impact
In 2024, we supported over 18,000 families across the UK, providing essential services in over 60 Local Authority areas and reaching even more families through our nationwide online support. With the growing need for SEND support – especially for children with complex needs – our work has never been more vital.
The number of people seeking information through our Special Educational Needs and Disabilities Information and Advice and Support Services (SENDIASS), as well as referrals to our Special Educational Needs and Disability Mediation and Disagreement Resolution Services increased by 18% compared to last year. This highlights the critical role we play in supporting families nationwide.
Some people we supported
Sharon
Sharon explains the challenges she faced navigating the health, care and education system, and how Kids’ early intervention helped her children thrive.
Ruby
Ruby struggled with sleep, leaving her family exhausted and overwhelmed. Our online Sleep Workshop provided the guidance they needed to finally get some restful nights.
Expanding our digital support
SEND advice
Our new SEND advice and guidance is designed to help parents and carers navigate the world of SEND, providing essential resources and information to help children thrive.
Online workshops
We launched regular online small group workshops on a wide variety of SEND topics, offering practical advice and support to families with children with SEND.
Young people’s hub
Activities
New activities for young people with SEND to try at home, offering a chance to explore creativity, practice self-care, or boost focus and energy – all at their own pace!
Anxiety & SEND
A great film where Charlie, one of our young people, talks to an NHS specialist to explore the connection between anxiety and SEND and how it can affect people differently.
News highlights
Reflections on the new government
Katie Ghose, our Chief Executive, shared her insights on the opportunities for immediate improvements and long-term reforms in the SEND system following the election results.
Young people share their stories with MPs
On November 21st, we attended the Disabled Children’s Partnership MP SEND Toolkit launch, where young people with SEND had the opportunity to speak directly with Members of Parliament.
Advocacy and change
Cliff Edge report
Our ‘On The Cliff Edge’ report, published in May, highlights the urgent need for reforms in the transition from childhood to adulthood for young people with SEND.
Kids’ Manifesto for Change
We launched our Manifesto for Change, calling on the government to focus on five key areas that will transform the lives of disabled children and young people.
Event highlights
London marathon
On Sunday 21st April, 54 runners completed the London Marathon for Kids. Together they raised over £77,000 to help us support disabled children, young people and their families. We’re in awe of every single one of them!
Christmas carol concert
Our Christmas carol concert was a truly magical evening, filled with heartfelt readings from Cathy Newman, Paul Brand and Daisy McAndrew, beautiful carols and a moving speech from Bethan, a young person who shared her inspiring story.
Continued partnerships
Greystar
Our long-standing partnership with Greystar continues to grow and make a profound impact. Together, they’ve raised over £200,000 to support us, with an incredible contribution from their annual charity event at the Natural History Museum.
Beyond fundraising, their team has also dedicated countless hours volunteering at our London playgrounds, helping to create brighter spaces for the children and young people we support.
Splash Projects
Splash Projects continues to be a vital partner for Kids, connecting us with dedicated volunteers. This year, we teamed up with a group from Qube Research & Technology, who gave our Hackney Adventure Playground a stunning transformation.
They built exciting new structures for the children and young people to enjoy and gave the entire playground a fresh makeover, creating a space that sparks imagination, play and adventure.
Volunteer highlights
425 volunteers over 21 days
This year, 425 volunteers dedicated their time across 21 days to help improve our playgrounds, build new play equipment, and make a lasting difference to the lives of children and young people with SEND.
Thank you to everyone who has given their time and energy this year – we are so grateful!
Unique ways to get involved
Hayward restaurant
This summer, we launched the Hayward Restaurant at our Hayward Adventure Playground, where young people supported by Kids showcased their culinary talents. With the help of Dusty Knuckle Bakery, they crafted a two-course menu, serving up delicious meals to the public.
Easyfundraising
We teamed up with easyfundraising to make it easier than ever to support Kids! Now, every time you shop online, you can turn your purchases into FREE donations for children and young people with SEND. It’s a simple and effortless way to give back and make a difference.
Looking ahead to 2025
As we wrap up an incredible 2024, we are filled with gratitude and optimism for the year ahead. We couldn’t have achieved any of this without the support of our incredible community – families, volunteers, partners, and donors.
We’re excited to continue this journey with you into 2025, supporting even more families, advocating for change, and creating opportunities for every child to thrive.
Ready to break down barriers in 2025?
With your support we can create brighter futures with disabled children and young people.