A lifeline at The Yard Dundee

Despite facing serious health challenges, Ryan has found a safe, supportive space where he can truly be himself.

Ryan is five years old, and despite his young age, he’s already faced more challenges than most people experience in a lifetime. From birth, Ryan has been battling serious health conditions, including a life-changing illness that left him dependent on a six-foot oxygen tube.

Despite his challenges, Ryan has found a place where he can simply be himself – The Yard Dundee. For Ryan and his family, The Yard isn’t just a play space; it’s a lifeline.

Before discovering The Yard, Ryan’s world felt limited. That all changed when Stacey, Ryan’s mum, found The Yard through a friend’s recommendation. “It was amazing to discover that Ryan could run around with his six-foot oxygen tube, and no one looked at him any differently,” Stacey shares.

The Yard is also a place where Stacey can relax and connect with other parents who understand her journey. “I’ve made lots of friends through the parent/carers group,” she says. “It’s a place I can vent, ask questions, and get the answers I need. The staff are so well-trained and always know how to support us.”

Stacey is also excited about The Yard’s upcoming £1.5 million refurbishment, which will create more accessible spaces for children like Ryan. “It will be wonderful when The Yard has been refurbished and when they can offer even more to families like us,” she says. “There is literally nowhere else for Ryan and the other children to go as they grow. They have a right to be who they are, and The Yard makes that possible.”

Ryan, Stacey, and their family are just one example of the hundreds of children and families who rely on The Yard. With your support, we can create an even better space for children with disabilities and additional needs. A space where they can feel safe, supported, and most importantly, free to be themselves.

By helping us raise the remaining £300,000 for the refurbishment of The Yard Dundee, you’re not just contributing to a building—you’re contributing to the happiness and well-being of children like Ryan who truly need it.

Hear from Ryan’s family

Explore the ways you can support our appeal

Graphic for buy a brick, text reads 'Buy a brick' £300,000 target

Buy a Brick

We need 1,200 virtual bricks to complete The Yard Dundee’s transformation into a fully accessible, supportive space where disabled children and their families can thrive.

Walkers at the Edinburgh kiltwalk wearing yard t-shirts

Fundraise

Help us build a lasting space for families in Dundee, so no family feels alone. Your support will bring us closer to creating the community local families need. Let’s Dig Deep!

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.

A corporate supporter presenting a cheque to The Yard

Corporate support

We’ll work with you to tailor ways your company can support us and meet your business objectives. We’d love to talk to you about the role that your company can play in changing lives.