REGULAR WEEKEND ACTIVITIES
We run regular tennis coaching sessions for all abilities at Sway Tennis Club, football skills coaching by Bournemouth AFC and fun swimming sessions for the whole family.
FAMILY OUTINGS
Throughout the year we arrange family activities such as ten-pin bowling, football matches at Southampton and Bournemouth football clubs, trips to pantomimes, cinemas and summer BBQs.
INFORMATION AND SUPPORT FOR PARENTS
We provide opportunities for parents to meet-up and exchange information and to share experiences. We are also very keen to keep parents informed about what is happening in the area, passing on relevant information through a newsletter, an informative web site and through mail-outs. We encourage and welcome speakers from other organisations to talk to SCARF members about issues of interest.
SIBLING SUPPORT
SCARF runs support groups for 7 to 12 year old siblings of children with special needs, enabling them to meet others, play, share feelings and gain mutual support.
YOUTH CLUB
SCARF has launched an exciting new weekly youth club for children with special needs aged between 11 and 16 years. This will enable young people to meet-up with their friends and take part in a great range of fun activities. It runs every Tuesday evening during term-time from 6.30pm to 8.00pm at Tiptoe Young Farmers' Club.
PERFORMING ARTS
SCARF is working with Forest Arts in New Milton to offer a range of professionally-run workshops in dance, music and drama; this will culminate in a performance in December 2007. This project is funded with the help of the National Lottery through Awards for All.
SCARF AND SCOUTS
SCARF members benefit from a close partnership with Hampshire Scouts. We jointly organise an annual family camp for members and local Scout troops.
FUTURE PLANS
SCARF is keen to explore new ideas and to work in partnership with others for the benefit of all children with special needs and their families and carers.
MEMBERSHIP
SCARF has an ever-growing membership, currently of about 50 families and 100 children. Family membership costs £ 15 per year, renewable each January. There is a small charge for each event. Because we are a parent-led organisation we ask that a parent or carer accompanies their children to events (except the Youth Club and the Sibling Group).
VOLUNTEERS
SCARF welcomes volunteers to help in any capacity, for example, making tea, helping with administration or supporting children. We will happily provide training when required. CRB checks may be necessary.
