Places to go tips for carers

It can be hard to find things to do and places to go if you or someone in your family has a disability or additional needs. We've put together some links that offer ideas and advice.

You can search the SEND Directory for activities run by local organisations across Lancashire. 

Sign up to the free SEND newsletter or check our local offer Facebook page to keep up to date with new activities and events.

For more ideas:

  • Holiday activities and food programme (HAF) is an exciting programme of activities for the school summer holidays. It is available for children receiving free school meals and for children and young people not in receipt of free school meals with other vulnerabilities including SEND.
  • Children and Family Wellbeing Services (previously children's centres) offer support in community based centres across Lancashire. They support families of children and young people from 0-19 years old and young people with special educational needs and/or disabilities up to 25. Check with your local Children and Family Wellbeing Service to find out what's going on near you.
  • Youth centres - for young people aged 12-19, or 25 if you have special educational needs or a disability. Join in activities or talk to a youth worker for advice and support.
  • Museums - discover the stories behind Lancashire's history. All of our museums have an access statement that describes the access, facilities and services on offer.
  • Libraries - Joining the library is free and you can join at any age. Many of our libraries have regular events for children and young people.
  • Country parks and nature reserves Beacon Fell and Wycoller Country Parks, picnic sites and nature reserves across Lancashire.
  • Walking routes (external link) Visit Lancashire has a free list of walking routes in Lancashire from short gentle walks to more challenging treks.
  • National Trust (external link) most buildings have a good degree of access and offer free admission for carers.
  • Cinemas with autism friendly screenings (external link) the Dimensions website has information about the adjustments at the cinema to help people with autism enjoy films with their families, friends and carers.
  • CEA Card (external link) Carers can get free entry to most cinemas with a CEA Card.
  • Scope (external link) - Lots of useful advice including tips about leisure activities including days out, sports and exercise and holidays for disabled children, young people and adults.
  • Carers Trust (external link) - discounts for you and the person you care for.
  • The Radar national key scheme (NKS) offers disabled people independent access to locked public toilets around the country by using a special key which you can buy from Disability Rights UK (external link).
  • Changing places (external link) extra facilities for people who cannot use standard accessible toilets.
  • AccessAble (external link) search for places to go and get the accessibility information you need to work out if a place is going to be accessible for you.
  • Motability - Rough Guide to Accessible Britain free download (external link) advice and information about inclusive and accessible days out for people of all abilities.