Charity of the Year
Diverse Abilities
Dorset’s Disability Charity
There are hundreds of children and adults across Dorset who are living with physical and learning disabilities.
They deserve the very best – and that’s why Diverse Abilities aims to make every day better for people with disabilities.
We believe everyone should be able to reach their full potential and enjoy the best possible quality of life, throughout their lives.
We’re here for the whole family. From creating precious shared moments to supporting parents and siblings through the pressures of care, we stand alongside families every step of the way.
More about Diverse Abilities
Founded over 70 years ago by a devoted mother, Diverse Abilities began as a small school where children with profound disabilities finally received the care, attention, and opportunities they deserved. Today, the charity has grown into a vital lifeline for hundreds of families across Dorset.
“In a time when we were so isolated and unsure, we were made to feel so welcome. Providing play opportunities and experiences that were once impossible, suddenly made possible. The endless support they have given us, you couldn’t find that anywhere else. We couldn’t be without the charity.”
Our services are designed to support people throughout their lives.
We are here for families just beginning their journey with a young child with disabilities, right through to providing specialist care, activities, and support for adults with disabilities.
We provide:
- A specialist school for children with very complex disabilities and medical needs, with nurses, physiotherapists, and speech and language therapists supporting every classroom.
- The Treehouse Family Centre, offering daily sessions for children with disabilities, alongside sibling groups and parent support – helping families create precious memories together.
- Guidance and support as young people transition from childhood into adult care, including respite services for 18–30-year-olds.
- An activity and therapy centre for adults with profound disabilities – this is the only adult day centre in Dorset with an on-site nurse.
- 24-hour supported living, enabling adults with disabilities to live as independently as possible in their own homes.
- An advice service that supports thousands of people every year.
How your support could help us:
Why run for Diverse Abilities?
Not only will you be helping to make every day better for someone right on your doorstep, you’ll be bringing smiles, making memories, and ensuring families get access to the right support.
£9 can fund one young person to attend our youth club, Awesome Nights.
£50 can help to deliver the magic of Christmas for an adult with disabilities spending the big day with us.
£78 could provide the chance for a family to attend one of our summer holiday play sessions.
£170 could fund a nurse for a day across our services.
If you choose to support us, you will receive:
- >A race top or vest to wear on the day
- >Help and advice throughout your fundraising journey from Fran
- >A place in a team of fantastic fundraisers
- >Cheering along the whole way through
Diverse Abilities
Dorset’s Disability Charity
Find out more about the work Diverse Abilities does by visiting https://diverseabilities.org.uk/