Parkside is a registered charity based in Aldershot and Farnborough that provides support services for some 230 children and adults with learning disabilities living in the local area, covering both Hampshire and Surrey. It was founded in 1963 by a group of parents who realised that the support for families who had children with special needs was limited. The premises next to the park on Guildford Road were built and the first playgroup was started (affectionately known as the Peter Pan Club). Since then, Parkside has strived to fulfil the need for more services and has gone from strength to strength.
Parkside’s objective is to give both children and adults the opportunity to develop their individual skills and take part in activities within the local community. Needs can vary from requiring support to socialise with friends, to participating in leisure activities, meeting new people, developing life skills, work experience opportunities and providing respite for other family members. By reaching out into the community, Parkside aims to develop and strengthen its links with local people and organisations, creating opportunities for everyone to be involved and included.
Parkside runs a variety of clubs and groups that meet a need. As we support a diverse age range we develop groups that meet our Service Users expectations and are flexible enough to reach a out and offer inclusion for all with a learning disability. We plan through consultation with our service users through forums and questionnaires and through Care plans. Our staff work closely at each session to make sure the delivery is meeting expectations.
Our Trustees will assist with audit visits and this is fed back at Board meetings so we are clear on out quality and meeting our obligations. Trustees are encouraged to visit all our services to help understand and participate in planning and implementing our objectives.
