Our vision

Little boy playing with a Yard team member

Since opening our Dundee doors in 2015, The Yard has been dedicated to providing a supportive space for disabled children and their families. Our services have grown over time, expanding from our family play sessions to include family support and school outreach services. Yet, we know there is so much more to do.

Young girl wearing ear defenders on the tyre swing at The Yard Dundee.

Families are at the heart of everything we do. We understand the challenges they face and the importance of having a safe, welcoming space where children with disabilities can thrive.

Our newly renovated centre will provide essential play opportunities, family support, and a strong sense of community. With improved facilities and expanded services, we will continue to be a place where children can explore, learn, and have fun while families feel supported, connected, and valued.

Little boy sitting on the roof on a toy pink car going downhill, smiling and laughing.

Why we need your support

There are currently 1,312 school pupils in Dundee City alone with a disability. Last year we supported 337 children, with more capacity we will be able to reach many more.

The Yard has fundraised almost £1.2m towards the £1.5m needed to fully renovate the building.

The Yard Dundee is located in an area with high levels of deprivation and a significant number of children with additional support needs (ASN). Dundee City Council has identified 506 pupils with ASN in primary and secondary schools across the Douglas, Mid Craigie, and Linlathen communities alone, highlighting the urgent need for accessible support and services.

Since 2015, The Yard Dundee has been providing vital services for disabled children, young people, and their families. What began as a two-day service at our Drumlanrig Place site has grown to five days during term time. We also run a dedicated schools programme, both in-house and through outreach, and in early 2024, we introduced a family support service to offer even more assistance to those who need it.

Staff member pushing a young boy on the sensory swing

About

Adventure play is at the heart of The Yard, but we also provide vital family support, respite, school services and community-building opportunities through our centres across Scotland.

An artists impression of the outdoors of the yard dundee

Explore the build

The renovation of The Yard Dundee will create a fully inclusive facility allowing us to expand the services we offer to disabled children, young people and their families.

Fundraisers wearing yellow yard t-shirts are running in the EMF

How you can help

Dundee’s new home is within reach but we need your support to complete it. Every penny raised stays right here in Dundee and will make a lasting difference to local children and families.

An artists impression of the play floors of the new Dundee building

Sponsor a room

Sponsoring a playroom, family room, or sensory space puts you at the heart of a generous group of Dundonians who are helping to create a place for families, right here in Dundee.