Things to do

Thomley was conceived in 1997 by parents of children with autism and complex needs. Many of these families felt excluded from mainstream leisure facilities and wanted to create a safe, fun and inclusive place to spend time together. A place where the staff and other visitors would be understanding and supportive, and everyone would be welcomed.

In 2001, we were formally registered as a charity and company limited by guarantee. This enabled the founder members to actively campaign for funds and donations to make sure that we became sustainable.

We started providing services at our current location in 2002. We started out by renting this space that eventually led to us acquiring the freehold in 2011. We occupy a total of 8 acres (3.2 hectares) which is used to deliver our programme of activities.

Our ethos is about being here for the lifetime of people with disabilities. Over the years we have extended and developed our activities where we now support people with disabilities of all ages and with any impairment.

We actively welcome non-disabled visitors who take part in the same programme of activities as their disabled peers.

Our specialist team develop a wide range of active and creative activities our visitors' individual needs. Our programmes help make that each visitor can fully access their play, education, and the world around them, and reach their full potential.

Our value proposition is that we provide a valuable service for people with disabilities, their families and carers throughout their lives.