Parkside (Aldershot & District Learning Disability)

Parkside is a registered charity based in Aldershot and Farnborough that provides support services for some 230 children and adults with learning disabilities living in the local area, covering both Hampshire and Surrey.  It was founded in 1963 by a group of parents who realised that the support for families who had children with special needs was limited.  The premises next to the park on Guildford Road were built and the first playgroup was started (affectionately known as the Peter Pan Club).  Since then, Parkside has strived to fulfil the need for more services and has gone from strength to strength. Parkside’s objective is to give both children and adults the opportunity to develop their individual skills and take part in activities within the local community. Needs can vary from requiring support to socialise with friends, to participating in leisure activities, meeting new people, developing life skills, work experience opportunities and providing respite for other family members.  By reaching out into the community, Parkside aims to develop and strengthen its links with local people and organisations, creating opportunities for everyone to be involved and included.