An Embrace for the Whole Family
Posted on 19th March 2025 at 18:05
We know that when a family member has a disability, it affects the entire family unit. Life can be challenging and, at times, isolating - that’s why it’s so important to us that we support every member of the family, not just the individual with the disability.
We have designed a range of services that the whole family can access: parents, carers, siblings and the wider family too, so that no one is left behind, and the whole family can enjoy new and exciting experiences together.
Here's a look at some of the activities we have on offer, as well as some of the broader community support and resources you can access as well. There is an Embrace for the whole family…
Wellbeing Services for Parent Carers
Caring for a loved one with a disability requires immense dedication, and it's essential for carers to prioritise their own wellbeing. We offer a variety of wellbeing sessions aimed at providing parent carers with opportunities to relax, connect with others, and rejuvenate.
Relaxation Yoga: Led by Rachel Rookwood of Adventure Yoga, these sessions focus on relaxation rather than physical exertion. They’re held weekly during term time on Wednesdays from 1:15 to 2:45 pm at Kempston Hammers Sports and Social Club – and an Embrace staff member is always present to offer a listening ear and share a cup of tea and biscuits after the session.
Knit Nat Craft Chat: This online craft group meets twice a month, providing a platform for parents and carers to engage in crafting while enjoying friendly conversations. Sessions include 'The Chatty One,' where participants bring their own crafts and connect via Zoom, and guided workshops that lead attendees through creating beautiful items in the comfort of their own home. These sessions take place on Tuesday evenings from 7:15 to 9:15 pm during term time.
Creative Sessions: sound baths, floral workshops, arts and crafts, and active movement classes – there’s always something new on the horizon! These sessions are scheduled at different times and locations, offering diverse opportunities for parent carers to explore new interests and unwind.
Mini Holistic Therapy Treatments: Recognising the therapeutic benefits of touch and energy work, we offer monthly mini holistic therapies, including massage and Reiki. These treatments, conducted by Breathe Holistic Therapies in Sharnbrook, provide parent carers with moments of peace and rejuvenation and take place at various different venues and times.
You can find out more about all of the above, and register to book a session, here: www.embrace.org.uk/our-services/wellbeing/
Whole Family Activities
It’s so important to enjoy experiences together as a family, and so we work hard to co-ordinate lots of different opportunities so that families can have even more of those precious times together.
Wellbeing Walks: Our family walking group meets every Tuesday from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at various locations across Bedfordshire. Each walk concludes near a coffee shop and accessible parking. These walks are open to the whole family, and even if you cannot manage the walk, you're welcome to join for refreshments afterwards.
Family Swim: Hosted at St. John's Special School, our Family Swim sessions take place in a fully accessible hydrotherapy pool, equipped with hoists in the pool and changing areas. The whole family, including extended members, is welcome to participate – we’ve had four generations in the pool at once before! Staff are available to assist with transitions in and out of the pool, and a lifeguard is on duty at all times. Sessions occur on the third Sunday of each month during term time. It’s a really joyful way to spend time together.
Family Days: We organise supported family outings to destinations like zoos or parks, and we love an outing to the Dunstable Downs Kite Festival! Events like these allow families to participate at their own pace, with staff and facilities available to provide support as needed. Dates, times, and prices vary for each event.
Find out more (and book a place if applicable) here: www.embrace.org.uk/our-services/family/
Building a Supportive Community
One of the most profound benefits of engaging with Embrace is the community we foster. Families often express that joining Embrace feels like becoming part of a larger family - one that really understands the unique challenges and joys of living with disability. Our community is built on shared experiences, mutual support, and genuine care.
Through our services, parents and carers have the opportunity to connect with others who truly understand their journey. These connections provide emotional support, practical advice, and lasting friendships. Whether it's through a chat after a yoga session, a conversation during a craft workshop, or interactions in our online forums, the Embrace community is here to support each member every step of the way.
Family Support Practitioners
Another role that’s very important to us is that of supporting families in navigating the unique complexities associated with disability. Our Family Support Practitioners are available to talk about your journey, and provide individualised advice and support for whatever you need – whether that’s finding a voice in meetings, giving you guidance, or even helping at home at difficult times. We want to empower families with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions, and advocate effectively for their loved ones.
Join the Embrace Family
No matter where you are on your journey, remember that you are not alone; Embrace is here to support you every step of the way. Together, we can navigate the journey of disability with compassion, resilience, and hope – there’s an Embrace for the whole family.
If you or someone you know in the Bedford Borough or Central Bedfordshire area could benefit from our services, we invite you to join the Embrace community. Registering is simple and opens the door to a network of support, understanding, and resources tailored to your family's needs – just follow the link below:
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