Sunshine & Smiles

Welcome to our weekly newsletter.

This week we have: Sunbeams (Ages 0-4), Ruth's Purple Speech and Language groups, Early Development Group - Busy Bees, Caitlin's Blue Speech and Language Groups (Tuesday), Cricket for young people aged 11+, Made with Music for Smilers and Youth (ages 8-18), Family swim at Bramley Baths and Football for ages 4+.

We’re thrilled to announce that Sunshine and Smiles has won Disability Service Provider of the Year in the My Local Awards 2026.

As always we are available by telephone and email for advice, support and signposting – please don’t hesitate to get in touch at any time.

Weekday: 0113 3234626

Weekend: 07472 320168

Email: hello@sunshineandsmiles.org.uk

Latest news

We are officially an award-winning charity!

We’re thrilled to announce that Sunshine and Smiles has won Disability Service Provider of the Year in the My Local Awards 2026.

World Down Syndrome Day 2026 is coming up on Saturday 21st March!

The Down Syndrome Act consultation closes on 30th March. Here’s how to have your voice heard.

Understanding SEND Mediation

Join the Leeds Parent Carer Forum for a free, informal online session delivered by Collis Mediation Limited, the commissioned SEND Mediation and Disagreement Resolution Provider.

Babble Play Project

The BabblePlay project involves testing a parent-led app designed to support early vocal development in babies with Down syndrome.

RISE Learning Hub has opened applications for its first ever 6-week course- a teacher-led, child-informed Yoga & Mindfulness Programme.

The Government published its White Paper on School SEND reforms last week- we are here to try and help you understand these far-reaching implications and how you can make your voices heard.

Inclusive Mainstream Practice

We encourage all families to take a few minutes to explore the Inclusive Mainstream Practice website and familiarise themselves with the guidance.

The next Leeds SEND Local Offer parent carer information drop-in will take place on Wednesday, 11th March at 10.30am to 12.30pm

Online Experiences Project

A PhD student is seeking participants for a research study on the online experiences of children and young people with Down syndrome (aged 9-25) who have not attended university.

Do you fancy taking on a challenge in 2026 and raising vital funds for Sunshine and Smiles? Endure24 (the North’s biggest 24-hour trail race) is taking place from 4th-5th July.

Leeds Local Offer Live

Leeds Local Offer Live is the annual marketplace event, bringing together families, professionals, and service providers to share information, resources and support, taking place on Wednesday 25th March

As part of this research project, the University of Leeds are running four free, topic-based sessions, for parents and carers of babies up to 12 months old.