International Day of Persons with Disabilities 2025: How SELFA champions inclusion and belonging 

Posted: 3rd December 2025

Every child deserves to feel included. A sense of belonging is essential to children’s emotional, social, and overall wellbeing, which is why it sits at the heart of our values at SELFA.

Yet many families with disabled children are still left without the support they need. Some parents wait more than 200 days for their child to be seen by a social worker, and 17% wait over a year. During this time, they’re unable to access any help from their local authority.

Many of the 1.7 million pupils in England with special educational needs face challenges, including a lack of adequate support and less access to extra-curricular activities. This can lead to isolation, loneliness and low self-esteem. A lack of support also means that a third (32%) of children with SEND are persistently absent from school, which affects their outcomes later in life.

We understand the difficulties families with disabled children and young people face. This is why we make inclusion – and creating a sense of belonging, hope and happiness – a priority for all those we support.

“In Craven, children and young people with disabilities often face real barriers to taking part in support and extra-curricular activities,” says Emma Pears, CEO of SELFA. “Transport, cost and limited inclusive options get in the way, but so do attitudes and a lack of clear information. Too many families are still having to fight just to be included.”

What we offer children & young people with disabilities at SELFA

At weekends, SELFA hosts five inclusive clubs for children and young people with disabilities. (A side note – we are using person-first language but recognise that some individuals and communities prefer identity-first language).

Rebound therapy

We offer rebound therapy, a therapeutic exercise programme that uses trampolines to help individuals improve their movement patterns, coordination, balance, and confidence. And, most importantly, it’s a fun way to make friends!

When coupled with physiotherapy, rebound therapy is thought to be a hugely successful intervention for children with physical disabilities. It can also be helpful for children who have learning disabilities, sensory needs or developmental disorders.

We’re able to offer rebound therapy with the support of the The Kentown Wizard Foundation, which offers grants to organisations that support children and young adults with disabilities.

Debbie Bamber, operations manager at The Kentown Wizard Foundation said: “Having witnessed first hand the many benefits of Rebound Therapy, we are thrilled to be supporting such a positive project.”

Sensory play

Sensory play is any activity that stimulates our senses: touch, sight, hearing, smell and taste. It helps children interact with and make sense of the world that surrounds them.

Simple activities like making play dough, water play and music can be calming and enjoyable – and can support brain development, enhance problem-solving and motor skills, communication and social skills.

Individual support

“We also offer 1:1 support and child-led activities, giving young people with profound disabilities safe and tailored support,” says Pears.

Giving children and young people the opportunity to lead their own activities helps to build self-esteem, confidence, communication and creativity.

Trips and adventures

Over the holidays, we offer children and young people trips to places like Stockeld Park, which they can enjoy with their family members where possible.

We recognise how important it is to offer safe and inclusive environments where people can enjoy positive activities like outdoor play, exploring nature, bouncy castles and crafts. Enjoying new experiences is hugely beneficial for boosting confidence and happiness.

“Thanks to funders like Kentown Wizard Foundation, John Horseman Trust and the National Lottery, we can give families regular, reliable respite and joyful experiences,” says Pears.

“As we approach the end of the year, we are focused on maintaining the support we offer families,” she adds. “Funding is increasingly tough, but we’re committed to protecting these vital spaces so children and young people with disabilities continue to feel included, supported and valued.”

And we’re always happy when we get positive feedback from the families we support. One told us: “I really think you are just brilliant, one of the most helpful of the many, many services and professionals we have in our lives!”