Your donation will help WHISH reach children with disabilities who live in isolated rural areas, and support those most in need with positive mental health support.

WHISH is a parent-led small charity which is completely self-funded, we support over 200 children & young people in the Whitby & Esk Valley rural area who have a disability or impairment.  

The children we help have over 50 different disabilities, some are well known like autism, cerebral palsy and epilepsy, some are rare chromosome disorders.They  can be physical, sensory, mental, emotional, developmental, or a combination  - some are life-limiting. 

Children & young people with disabilities are often isolated and marginalised within their communities. Many have communication difficulties and a limited social life, are more likely to be bullied and often struggle interacting with other children, adults and the wider community.They can have difficulties accessing  "normal" leisure and social situations, and are often unsafe and vulnerable in public situations. 

We provide a variety of youth group activities as there are no other out-of-school activities in the area specifically for young people with special or additional needs.     WHISH are open 6 days a week and provide: activities for children & teenagers; multi-sensory room; holiday clubs; information & support for families; after school clubs; holiday clubs; food bank; healthy eating & cookery; swimming lessons & sports adapted for disabilities; training for parents e.g. sign language, 1st aid;  parent support groups;  family outings.

Participating in WHISH activities enhances the health and well-being of the young people, and improves confidence and self esteem, giving children with disabilities and impairments an opportunity to do things like their peers, to access activities most children can take for granted, learning and having fun together.