Families United (Warrington)

Families United (Warrington) is a UK-based nonprofit organization registered under charity number 1097146. Founded to support families with children and young people who have special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), the charity operates primarily within Warrington and the surrounding WA postcode areas.

Mission and Purpose
The organization aims to improve the health, wellbeing, and social opportunities for families affected by SEND by providing a supportive local network led by trustees who themselves are parents of children with disabilities. Families United promotes a community where members find mutual support through shared experiences, strategies, and understanding the challenges of family life with SEND children. Central to their approach is ensuring inclusivity and accessibility at all activities and events by working closely with venues and service providers to meet the specific needs of their members.

Activities and Services
Families United offers a variety of inclusive activities and events designed for the whole family. These include:

• Monthly FUN Club meetups at the Warrington Play & Sensory Centre, providing activities and refreshments for young people with SEND and their families.
• Sport and swim sessions held on Sundays at Woolston Neighbourhood Hub, focusing on making friends, improving physical activity, and building water confidence for children aged 4 to 16 with additional needs and their siblings.
• A members-only online forum and Facebook group to facilitate peer support and communication among families facing similar challenges.
• Sibling support programs that help brothers and sisters of children with SEND connect and form friendships.

Membership is free and offers access to these exclusive events, community connections, and ongoing support tailored to the unique needs of families with SEND children.

Governance
Families United is a user-led charity, with four trustees who are parents of children with disabilities, reflecting the organization's commitment to being guided by lived experience. The charity maintains up-to-date records with the Charity Commission and operates under a formal governing document that directs its charitable activities.

Since its establishment, Families United (Warrington) has been dedicated to uniting families through fun, understanding, and practical support, fostering a community where no family faces the challenges of SEND alone.

Note: The above article is composed based on information obtained from the official Families United (Warrington) website and the UK Charity Commission registry.

[1] https://familiesunited.org.uk [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3998761 [3] https://familiesunited.org.uk/members/ [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/3998761/governing-document [5] https://www.instagram.com/familiesunitedwarrington/