We’re pleased to open referrals for our upcoming Self Management Skills (SMS) Programmes, taking place both in person this autumn and online over the winter.
Our SMS Programmes support children and young people living with health conditions to build confidence, develop self management skills and connect with others who understand their experiences. We welcome self‑referrals from families as well as professional referrals from across health, education and the third sector. No formal diagnosis is need to join our SMS Programmes. They are child-led and when referred a memory of our friendly team will get in contact.
SMS Face‑to‑Face Programme – Autumn 2026
Our autumn in‑person SMS Programme offers children and young people the chance to come together in a relaxed, supportive environment where they can explore their experiences of health through games, discussion, creativity and play.
Programme dates
- Saturday 29 August – Saturday 10 October 2026 (no session on 3 October)
- Running for six Saturdays
Groups and times
- Ages 9–12: 10:00am – 12:00pm
- Ages 13–17: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
What participants tell us
“Before SMS, my child felt like no one else understood what living with their condition was like. Now they know they’re not on their own.”
Parent of a 10‑year‑old participant
“I liked meeting other people like me. It made me feel more confident talking about my health.”
Young person, age 12
“The sessions helped me realise I can still do lots of things, even with my health condition.”
Young person, age 15
This programme is particularly beneficial for children and young people who may be feeling isolated, anxious, or unsure how to talk about their health and needs.
Winter Online SMS Programme – October to December 2026
Our Winter Online SMS Programme provides the same trusted SMS approach in a flexible, accessible online format, making it easier for families to take part during the winter months.
Programme dates
- Monday 26 October – Thursday 3 December 2026
- Sessions run on Mondays and Thursdays for six weeks
Groups and times
- Ages 9–12: 4:30pm – 5:30pm
- Ages 13–17: 6:00pm – 7:00pm
What families say about online SMS
“The online programme worked so well for us. My child felt comfortable joining from home and really looked forward to the sessions.”
Parent
“It helped me understand my health better and gave me ideas for things to do when I’m struggling.”
Young person, age 14
Small group sizes ensure that every participant feels seen, heard and supported, even in an online space.
Who Can Refer?
We encourage referrals from:
- Parents, carers and families (self‑referral)
- Health professionals
- Education staff
- Third sector and community organisations
If you are supporting a child or young person who could benefit from peer support, confidence‑building and structured self‑management support, an SMS Programme may be a great fit.
Why SMS Makes a Difference
Children and young people living with health conditions often face challenges beyond their physical health, including anxiety, low confidence, school absence and social isolation. Our SMS Programmes are designed to:
- Support emotional wellbeing
- Develop practical self‑management skills
- Build confidence and resilience
- Reduce isolation through peer connection
- Promote awareness of children’s health rights
“SMS didn’t just help my child during the sessions. We’ve seen a real difference at home and at school.”
Parent
Refer Now
Spaces are limited and demand for SMS Programmes is consistently high.
We welcome self‑referrals and professional referrals for both the autumn face‑to‑face programme and the winter online programme.
To refer, or to discuss whether SMS is the right support for a child or young person, please get in touch with our team. Or you can REFER HERE.
