Activities for people with special educational needs and disabilities

Take part in a variety of inclusive sports and activities, including table tennis, badminton, pickleball, boccia and more! 

Maximum of 16 participants, on a first come first serve basis. No session on Bank Holidays*. 

Time: Monday 10.00-11.00am
Venue: Bedford International Athletics Stadium, Barkers Lane, Bedford MK41 9SB
Age: 18+
Price: £3. Email olivia.flemons@bedford.gov.uk to sign up

*Monday sessions will not take place on Bank Holidays. We encourage you to maintain your regular physical activity routine by visiting our Bedford Activity Sessions YouTube channel and taking part in one of the pre-recorded sessions.

**Disclaimer: Support workers are requested to stay where participant has high support needs. If you choose to take part in any of the live or pre-recorded sessions, you do so at your own risk. You acknowledge that there is inherent risk in any physical activity. The sessions are designed to be gentle and for beginners however you are responsible for your own safety. Neither Bedford Borough Council nor the delivery partners will be responsible for any injury sustained because of participation. 

A fully inclusive, accessible dance experience for all, that can be enjoyed from the comfort of the home**.

Led by a professional instructor, these fun, creative sessions combine music and gentle movement for a great way to stay active, improve mobility, and boost mood. 

Mondays: 14.30 - 15.00
Age: mixed age class
Price: free
Contact olivia.flemons@bedford.gov.uk to sign up.

*Monday sessions will not take place on Bank Holidays. We encourage you to maintain your regular physical activity routine by visiting our Bedford Activity Sessions YouTube channel and taking part in one of the pre-recorded sessions.

**Disclaimer: Support workers are requested to stay where participant has high support needs. If you choose to take part in any of the live or pre-recorded sessions, you do so at your own risk. You acknowledge that there is inherent risk in any physical activity. The sessions are designed to be gentle and for beginners however you are responsible for your own safety. Neither Bedford Borough Council nor the delivery partners will be responsible for any injury sustained because of participation. 

We have partnered with Barnes Active to help you push past your fitness boundaries and improve your overall health through fun, accessible workouts. Whether you're new to exercise or looking to enhance your routine, Barnes Active have got you covered. Grab some water, a towel, and if you don't have weights, no worries—everyday items like water bottles or even rolled-up socks will do! Remember, exercise comes with its own risks, so be mindful of your limits and consult your doctor if needed. Now, let's dive in and go Beyond Limits together! Click on the links below to view the workouts***

• Fitness Session 1: Chair based exercise with Barnes active
• Fitness Session 2: Full body fitness and sensory skills (1)
• Fitness Session 3: Full body fitness and sensory skills (2)

***Disclaimer: You undertake these exercises and workout videos at your own risk. You acknowledge that there is inherent risk in any physical activity, even though the sessions are designed to be gentle and beginner friendly. If you have high support needs, we advise that your support worker remains with you during the session. If you have any concerns about whether you should be engaging in physical activity, or if there's any reason you shouldn't exercise, we strongly advise you to consult your doctor before proceeding. Barnes Active and Bedford Borough Council do not accept any responsibility for illness or injury linked to participation in these videos. You are responsible for your own safety throughout the workout.

If you enjoy these workouts and want to learn more about staying fit and healthy, find out about additional sessions at Barnes Active. 

Join Nisha’s sensory dance sessions every Tuesday from 6.30–7.30pm at John Bunyan Sport and Fitness. These sessions, open to anyone with complex needs or disabilities aged 16 and above, focus on creating a calming connection between the body and mind through gentle, expressive movement. Each class includes a warm-up, a specific dance skill, and time for intuitive movement to music using various props. Sessions are just £3 per person, and carers attend for free. Plus, if you'd like to book the Sensory Room before or after the session, simply request it when you book. 

Bring along your favourite song request for a personalised dance experience and enjoy a relaxing, joyful atmosphere. To reserve a space or for more details, please contact olivia.flemons@bedford.gov.uk.

*** Disclaimer: Support workers are requested to stay where the participant has high support needs. If you choose to take part in any of the live or pre-recorded sessions, you do so at your own risk. You acknowledge that there is inherent risk in any physical activity. The sessions are designed to be gentle and for beginners however you are responsible for your own safety. Neither Bedford Borough Council nor the delivery partners will be responsible for any injury sustained because of participation. 

Stay active and have fun with Barnes Active.

Discover custom fitness programs that make staying active fun while helping you reach your goals in a friendly, supportive atmosphere.

Visit: www.barnesactive.co.uk to enquire about a session. 

ABILITY Blues offers inclusive sports sessions that inspire and empower all participants aged 8-14 years. 

Visit: www.bluesfoundation.org.uk for more information.  

There are now more opportunities than ever to play football if you have a disability. Bedfordshire FA believes in flexible, inclusive and accessible playing opportunities for everyone

Visit Bedfordshire FA to find out what's on offer. 

Our leisure partner GLL offers a sensory room and SEND soft play sessions at John Bunyan Sports and Fitness. 

Specific SEND swimming sessions are available at Kempston Pool and Fitness, Robinson Pools and Fitness, and Oasis Beach Pool. 

For details go to contact the centres directly at: www.better.org.uk/leisure-centre/bedfordshire or email: olivia.flemons@bedford.gov.uk.

Riverside Tennis offers inclusive tennis sessions for all ages and abilities, including wheelchair tennis, sessions for individuals with learning disabilities, Down’s syndrome, autism, and visual impairments, as well as fitness and movement classes. 

Contact Riverside Tennis Club for more information or to join a free trial session. 

Bedfordshire’s first inclusive club for SEND offers a variety of games and activities for children and young people aged 5-18 years old. 

Visit ssgcelestialsfc.co.uk for more information.