Let’s celebrate neurodiversity by acknowledging the importance of all neurotypes. Whether you’re autistic, neurotypical or neurodivergent in any other way, you’re welcome to join this inclusive get-together amongst parents, carers, children and young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and/or Disabilities) who live in, go to school at, or access a GP in the city of Manchester.

There will be plenty of activities to enjoy together – Lego, arts and crafts, board games. We’ll also have snacks and refreshments to share!

We can also take out some items from our Book Library so that you can explore some fantastic books about autism, neurodiversity, the SEND system, and more! Please speak with someone from the team on the day of the event if you want to read a book during the session.

Booking is required. Feel free to arrive and leave any time between 4:30 to 6:30pm.

Important Notes:

• Children and young people aged 17 and under, and those with complex/ high support needs, must be in the presence of an adult at all times. You are responsible for your own children’s safety throughout the session.
• This event is exclusively for families of deaf, disabled and neurodivergent children & young people living in the city of Manchester (or if they go to a Manchester-based school or accesses a Manchester-based GP).
• Siblings without SEND are also welcome to join.
• The building receptionist might not be fully available during the session. If nobody’s opening the sliding doors for you, please feel free to ring us on 0161 388 4500 or contact us via SMS (text message) or WhatsApp.

What makes it “SEND-Friendly”?

Manchester Parent Carer Forum (MPCF) is committed to making the event as welcoming and comfortable as possible. You can expect:

• This event is exclusive to families of children and young people with additional needs and/or disabilities.
• No need to mask! – This is a safe space to show the real you! Whether you stim or you need movement breaks or you want to wear earphones while playing, etc, your individuality will be welcomed here. All we ask is for everyone to be respectful of everyone’s individual needs.
• Peace of Mind – All MPCF staff and volunteers have lived experience of SEND so you can rest assured that there will be a level of empathy and understanding with any needs, difficulties or quirks that may arise on the day. Please speak to a member of the team if you have a request to make for a better experience. We will also be supported by MFT’s Autism Navigators who are experienced in supporting families of neurodivergent children.
• A Quieter Experience – We can reduce the volume and/or request for some lights to be kept on/ switched off, if needed, ensuring that your visit will not be too overwhelming.
• Accessibility Considerations – The room that we will be using in the centre is accessible to wheelchair and buggy users.
• In Your Own Time – No need to rush and bustle. Whether you are coming late or have to leave early, it’s okay with us.

Acknowledgements

In April 2026, we ran our very first Game Day to celebrate World Autism Acceptance Day, which we felt was a success – thereby inspiring us to try and do more of it!

We are grateful to Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) and their Neurodiversity Navigators for hosting and assisting us during these sessions as part of the Needs-Led Model of Support.

Much thanks as well to Manchester City Council’s SEND Local Offer, who generously provided financial support for us to be able to continue running the Game Days for the rest of the year as part of the SEND Community Offer!

What is World Autism Acceptance Day?

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly designated 2 April as World Autism Awareness Day (WAAD) in 2007. Since then, the UN has worked to promote the full realisation of human rights and fundamental freedoms for autistic individuals, ensuring their equal participation in society.

Here at MPCF, we prefer to say ‘Acceptance’ rather than just ‘Awareness’, as we believe that true celebration of neurodiversity requires acceptance of everyone’s differences rather than just knowing about it. In the words of an I CAN Network mentee, “Awareness means you know I’m here. Acceptance means you’re happy to see me.”

World Autism Acceptance Week is also celebrated in the week that includes the 2nd of April, which this year would be the week commencing the 30th of March.

The whole of April is also known as Autism Acceptance Month.