What We Do
Peer-led activities, advocacy, and support designed by and for disabled and chronically ill people.
Access & Advocacy
Free information, signposting, and practical support to help remove access barriers in Cheshire East.
What We Offer
Information & Signposting
Help navigating local services, benefits, accessible transport, and healthcare. We don't replace specialist advice, but we can point you in the right direction – and share what's worked for others.
Accessibility Audits
We work with local venues – cafés, community centres, event spaces – to assess and improve accessibility. Our audits cover physical access, sensory considerations, and inclusive communication.
Reasonable Adjustments Support
Template letters, guidance on requesting adjustments under the Equality Act, and peer support from those who've navigated similar challenges.
Who Benefits
- Disabled and chronically ill people seeking information about local services and rights
- Community venues and businesses wanting to improve accessibility
- Event organisers planning inclusive activities
- Anyone facing access barriers in Cheshire East
How It Works
For individuals: Contact us with your query. We'll share information, connect you with specialist organisations if needed, or arrange a chat with someone who's navigated similar issues.
For venues/organisations: Request an accessibility audit. We'll visit your space, provide a written report, and offer practical recommendations. Our audits are peer-led, drawing on lived experience rather than just tick-box compliance.
Outcomes
- Increased awareness of local accessible services and support
- More venues across Cheshire East proactively improving accessibility
- Disabled people feeling empowered to request reasonable adjustments
- Stronger partnerships between our community and local businesses
Peer Support
Connecting with others who truly understand, offering solidarity and shared experience without judgment.
What We Offer
Lived-Experience Sessions
Monthly themed discussions – managing flare-ups, navigating healthcare, grief and loss, relationships and intimacy, adjusting to new diagnoses. Facilitated by trained peers.
Online Check-Ins
Weekly Zoom drop-ins (Wednesdays, 7pm) for those who can't attend in-person. Captions provided. Camera-optional. Just a space to connect and be seen.
WhatsApp Community
Private group for sharing wins, asking questions, and offering mutual support between sessions. Opt-in, moderated for safety and respect.
Who Benefits
- Anyone feeling isolated or misunderstood due to disability or chronic illness
- People adjusting to new diagnoses or progressive conditions
- Those seeking connection with others who "get it" without needing lengthy explanations
- Individuals navigating grief, loss, or identity shifts related to their health
Our Approach
This isn't therapy or clinical support – it's peer-to-peer connection. We share experiences, validate feelings, and offer solidarity. Facilitators are trained in active listening and safeguarding, but we're not counsellors. If someone needs specialist support, we can signpost appropriately.
What to Expect
- Confidentiality: What's shared in sessions stays in sessions (with safeguarding exceptions)
- Non-judgmental space: No "inspiration porn," toxic positivity, or unsolicited medical advice
- Accessible formats: In-person sessions in quiet, sensory-friendly rooms; online sessions captioned
- Voluntary participation: You can listen without sharing, or step away if a topic feels too heavy
Peer Support FAQs
Is this the same as counselling or therapy?
No. Peer support is about shared experience and mutual understanding, not clinical treatment. We can help you access professional support if needed.
What if I'm in crisis?
Peer support isn't an emergency service. If you're in immediate danger, call 999. For mental health crisis support, contact Samaritans (116 123) or your local crisis team. We can provide information about these services.
How do I join the WhatsApp group?
Attend one in-person or online session first, then ask a facilitator for the invite link. This helps maintain a safe, trusted community.
Ready to Get Involved?
Whether you want to attend activities, volunteer, or support our work, there's a place for you.
Social Meetups
Regular, accessible social activities where you can connect with others who understand lived experience of disability and chronic illness.
What We Offer
Coffee Mornings
When: Every Tuesday & Thursday, 10:30am–12:30pm
Where: Accessible cafés across Sandbach and Congleton
Drop-in, relaxed gatherings. No pressure to attend every week – come when you can. All venues are step-free with accessible toilets and hearing loops.
Craft Circles
When: First Saturday of the month, 2pm–4pm
Where: Community centre with ramp access and parking
Gentle crafting sessions – card making, painting, knitting. Materials provided. Adapted tools available. Focus on process, not perfection.
Walking & Rolling Groups
When: Second Sunday of the month, 11am–12:30pm
Where: Step-free paths in local parks and nature reserves
Wheelchair-accessible routes. Multiple pace options. Optional café stop at the end. Mobility scooters, rollators, and powerchairs welcome.
Who Benefits
How to Join
Most activities are drop-in – no booking required. Check our events calendar for dates and venues. If you'd like to chat before attending, or have specific access needs we should know about, get in touch.
What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to register in advance?
Most activities are drop-in. For craft circles or events with limited spaces, we'll note on the calendar if booking is required.
What if I need to bring a support worker or carer?
Absolutely welcome. Personal assistants and carers attend free of charge at all our events.
Are activities wheelchair accessible?
Yes. We audit every venue and only use spaces with level access, accessible toilets, and adequate space for mobility aids.
What if I'm anxious about attending alone?
We can arrange a "buddy" to meet you at the door or chat beforehand. Just drop us an email or call.
See Upcoming Meetups