Skylarks is an independent charity, based in SW London, that provides activities, therapies and support for families of children with disabilities and additional needs. The charity is a lifeline for over 6,000 families nationwide.
The charity is now extending its reach by opening an exciting new site in Hounslow this summer, where it will host a flexible, welcoming space for families to build relations, enjoy activities and receive the support they need to thrive.
With nearly half of all SEN-registered young people in Richmond engaging in their services, and 20% of their families coming from Hounslow (a rapidly growing area of need), their reach is expanding at a crucial time for under-supported families.
They are tackling deep-rooted inequalities in access by opening a new site in Hounslow; home to some of the UK’s most deprived communities, ranking among the top 10% most deprived areas.
Skylarks Hounslow will provide much-needed space to facilitate a range of services and activities, including therapies such as music therapy, play therapy, stress-free haircuts, advice and support services, and SEND education advice.
Aaron Guiver, MD of Skylarks, told us “Skylarks is working hard to extend our services to more families by opening our Hounslow site in summer 2025.
“We are delighted to be in a position to open a base in Hounslow and engage with more families. With an ever-increasing demand for services and no statutory funding, we are grateful for the support of our partners, sponsors, volunteers, and fundraisers who are helping to turn this exciting project into reality.”
Families are welcome to come to the Twickenham or Hounslow centres from wherever they travel, and a range of services are also offered online.
Once complete, Skylarks Hounslow in Inwood Road will host a dedicated sensory room, a tech hub designed for helping young people with the skills needed for future employment, free information and advice, and space for children with additional needs and their siblings to play.
An open day will be held for families and sponsors in the Summer of 2025 at the new Hounslow site, with an official launch day to be held once the full works have finished. Families who would like to attend the open day will be able to register their interest and book their free place on the Skylarks website.
Despite enormous funding challenges and rising community needs, Skylarks is growing.
Last year, they delivered over 9,000 free activity sessions, and their online provision also offers support, information, and advice, as well as a peer support network nationwide.
With no statutory funding stream, Skylarks welcomes donations, fundraising champions, pro-bono sponsors and volunteers.
Dee Carswell, Skylarks Head of Partnerships & Fundraising, said “Thank you to our incredible fundraisers for your continued support of this exciting and evolving project. Your efforts are helping shape a fantastic new offer for families in Hounslow, and we’re so grateful to have you with us on this journey.”
