Our Summer of Fun!

Brand new in 2025, the ‘Summer of Fun’ grant helps services to hold an activity or event which gives the people they support the opportunity to try something that they have never done before – whether it’s a silent disco, a painting party, or something else entirely!

The grant could fund anything needed to make a fantastic event, from venue hire, to the purchase of equipment, food or transport.

Applicants could apply for a grant of up to £300. Those with ideas for larger-scale events across a wider area could apply for a ‘Grand Prize’ grant of up to £800.

Let’s see how everyone used their grant!

Blackburn – Sports Day

Our services in Blackburn brought back their amazing sports day from last year, and this time, it was even bigger and better than before! Held on the football pitch at Witton Park, the event was packed with an incredible variety of activities which everyone got stuck into.

As attendees arrived, they were nervously glancing at the sky as the weather did not look promising. After half an hour, the sun broke through the clouds, coats came off and someone shouted, “Let the games begin!”

From ring toss and darts to penalty shootouts, cricket, face painting, badminton, giant Jenga, and tennis, there was something for everyone. At one moment, Neil was deep into a game of Connect 4, while Michael was simultaneously dancing to Lady Gaga, Michelle was getting her face painted, and Colin was on the tennis court with Support Worker Ken.

When the rain arrived around 2pm, no one seemed to mind and a game of rounders had just started. “This is the most people we’ve ever had getting involved in rounders,” said Support Coordinator Laura who organised the day.

Whether running round the marks or cheering from the sidelines, everyone was locked into the competition. Audrey, however, was enjoying the daytime disco next to the pitch. “I came for Chappell Roan on the speaker,” she said. “‘Pink Pony Club’ is my favourite song.”

Jackie was chatting to her friend Paul who had just arrived. “I like to eat a sandwich and watch from the sidelines,” she said.

As the day rounded off, everyone agreed it was a fun and inclusive experience and it became very clear they’d outdone last year’s Sport’s Day. You’re unstoppable, Blackburn!

North East – Sports Day

Services from across the North East came together for a fun-filled sports day!

Everyone started off with a cool drink before tucking into chips and jacket potatoes to fuel up for the day’s activities.

There was plenty to get involved in: archery, egg-and-spoon races, relays, javelin and, of course, five-a-side football. Staff and people we support were friendly and supportive, cheering each other on all day.

Steven was excited to win but just as keen to support his friends from the sidelines. Becka enjoyed snapping lots of photos of the athletes in action and still found time for some serious dancing.

The football was a highlight, with world-class goals and even a few players rolling around in laughter mid-game.

Wakefield – Summer Party

In Wakefield, the people we support had an amazing time at their Summer of Fun party held in the back garden. On the sunny patio, everyone enjoyed refreshing mocktails while soaking up the sunshine.

The decorations were thoughtfully designed to bring back memories of childhood visits to fairgrounds. There was popcorn, candyfloss, and even a shooting gallery with a toy gun. Registered Manager Georgina’s mum made beautiful headdresses for everyone to wear.

“I haven’t had candyfloss since I was a child. This takes me back,” smiled Peggy as she enjoyed a mouthful.

“We all get on very well together in this community. Of course, we have our moments, but every household does. This event was a welcome change from our usual routine, and the staff really went the extra mile,” said Pam.

“My favourite part is being outside. I love it when the grandchildren come too,” added Richard.

“We come in on our days off for events like this because it’s worth it. Everyone will be talking about this for ages, asking when the next one will happen. Once this is over, we’ll start planning the Christmas party and other events with our activity fund,” said Registered Manager Georgina.

Trafford – Celebrating Rob

Our Trafford services came together for a day of laughter and games in memory of much-loved Support Worker, Rob.

The party, held outdoors in the sunshine, was made comfortable with living room cushions and even a sofa out on the grass! Butterflies floated around the garden as people from other services trickled in.

With the Summer of Fun grant covering the cost of a barbecue, food was free for all, and it didn’t disappoint. Support Worker Vize cooked up a storm, serving chicken drumsticks and rice.

“When the staff make food, it’s often Caribbean food, which is delicious. That’s what I like about these events,” said Shane.

Sheriff, Support Worker and MC for the day, brought energy and humour from start to finish. He even got competitive during the egg and spoon race, although suspicions were raised about his especially flat spoon!

Music played throughout the day, with highlights including Stevie Wonder and Fleetwood Mac. Joanne was the first on the dancefloor, setting the tone for a lively and musical afternoon.

Meanwhile, the cup stack championship saw Michael and Liam go head-to-head with impressively strategic stacking styles that inspired others to take part.

In a voice guessing game, Mental Health Manager Richard sat with his back to everyone, guessing who was saying “hello” from behind – and got it right it nearly every time.

For those less competitive, there was a painting session. “I’ve always liked drawing,” said Connor, who painted a stunning sunset cityscape framed by mountains.

Towards the end of the afternoon, there was a “Managers’ Musical Chairs” showdown between Service Manager Jem and Richard, with a dramatic scramble for the final seat.

“It’s been a lovely day, the weather is great,” said Michael, summing up the mood. “I’ve loved dancing to Fleetwood Mac,” added Joanne.

Known for his humour, kindness and love for cooking, Rob’s presence is deeply felt across Trafford services. Everyone made speeches, including Richard:

“No one can replace Rob. He was such a positive influence, always chatting with everyone and making food, especially at Christmas.”

In Rob’s honour, a new bench has been placed in the garden. “It’s at the back of the garden where he’d want to sit, watching everyone enjoy themselves in the sun,” Richard shared.

Tameside – Sports Day

After a super successful event last year, services in Tameside were back again with their fantastic sports day.

People from our services in and around the Tameside area gathered together to take part in a fun-filled day of games.

Individual activities were spread across the park, with everyone being given a score bag and coloured counters which correspond to points as they played each game in the hopes of winning either first, second, or third prize. Games ranged from bean bag toss, skittle throwing, egg and spoon race, football and a classic game of Connect Four.

Mark, a person we support, said, “I really enjoyed playing football and I look forward to having a go at the Skittles game.” Lauren, another person we support, said, “I liked playing Connect Four, I am good at it.”

Everyone had an amazing day, well done everyone!

Stockport – Beach Party

Two of our Extra Care services came together for a fun-filled beach party — in Stockport! As everyone arrived, Service Manager Katie and Senior Support Worker Gertrude welcomed them with flower garlands and a pair of silly glasses. The lounge was beautifully decorated with inflatable palm trees and beach-themed backdrops where people could take photos.

Lorna came with her children and grandson. Her son surprised everyone by arriving in a Victorian beach outfit! Ada’s daughter and great-granddaughter also joined, along with other family members. They all sat down to a classic seaside lunch of fish and chips, with ice cream for dessert. During lunch, Danny shared fond memories of growing up in Ireland and enjoying fish and chips.

After lunch, there was a raffle where Michelle won first prize and chose a big cuddly toy, which she kindly gifted to Ada’s little great-granddaughter.

The fun continued with a few lively rounds of Bingo, hosted by staff member Ellie, followed by games in the garden. The outdoor space was vibrant and colourful, with gazebos and giant beach games set up, including Connect 4, inflatable bowling, hook-a-duck, a sandpit for sandcastle building, badminton, and even a piñata! Gerrard and Katie built sandcastles together while Gertrude and Gerrard enjoyed a game of giant Jenga.

It was a fantastic day full of laughter and summer spirit, and all without leaving the city!

Wythenshawe – Remembering Linda

Linda was a “kind, empathetic, and funny” person who sadly passed away earlier this year. She will be deeply missed – Linda touched many people’s lives both within and outside our service where she lived in Wythenshawe.

With their Summer of Fun grant, staff and people we support threw a party in the lounge to celebrate Linda’s life. The day of the party was what would have been Linda’s 78th birthday, so it was important that the room was decorated to her taste with Miss Piggy teddies on the sofas and Muppets artwork on the walls.

“Linda would have loved this party, especially the confetti in the balloons,” said Marie. “She was a great character. She always used to ask me if today was ‘my day.’ She was really funny and lovely. I like to help the staff out sometimes, so I drew some Miss Piggy pictures to decorate the room. Linda loved Miss Piggy.”

Support Worker Lisa prepared a huge spread of food which everyone found delicious. After lunch, everyone enjoyed colouring in some Muppets templates while sharing memories of Linda.

“What I remember about Linda is how many questions she asked. She’d ask, ‘Who’s your sister? Have you got a pet?’” smiled Support Worker David. “Wherever she went, people knew her. She talked to everyone. She loved going to the disco and dancing with Miss Piggy.”

“She would say, ‘Dance with Miss Piggy for me,’” laughed Lisa.

It was a very special afternoon, full of fond memories, food, music, and friendship. The fact that everyone turned up showed just how much Linda was loved and how much everyone at the service cares for each other.

Rest in peace, Linda, you will be missed.

Calderdale & Kirklees – Sports Day 

The wettest day of July didn’t stop the fun at the sports day in Halifax, where services from Calderdale and Kirklees came together for an afternoon of indoor games! Everyone had a great time competing for medals.

With equipment purchased through their Summer of Fun Grant, participants enjoyed basketball, a creative twist on the egg-and-spoon race (where they passed the egg and spoon), and even ducked under an inflatable limbo!

After a fantastic lunch spread, an awards ceremony celebrated the day’s winners. Adam went home with more than one certificate, while a proud Judith took silver in the egg-and-spoon race. Everyone looked the part too – Kerri looked fabulous in her pelican glasses!

The day wrapped up with a well-earned ice lolly, and everyone headed home tired but happy.