Home

North East CANN – Children’s Additional Need Network

Who Is North East CANN?

‘CANN’ stands for ‘Children Additional Needs Network’.

North East CANN is formed of third sector, voluntary community and statutory organisations working with families and carers with children and young people with additional needs, in North East England.

It has been established so that Member Organisations can share best practice, resources, ideas and opportunities, in order to improve access to information, training and support for families and carers across the North East area and the region, and to help to create a more efficient and effective ‘market place’ to the benefit of all users of our services, and the organisations involved.

The aim of this website is to share those good practices and resources with the families who need them!

North East CANN Locations

Newcastle and Surrounds

Includes Newcastle, Hexham, Tyne Valley, Gateshead, North Shields, South Shields,…
Northumberland

Includes Alnwick, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Blyth, Morpeth, Ashington, Cramlington, Bedlington
Tyne & Wear and surrounds

FIND FUN ACTIVITIES

Enjoy new experiences and meet other families on fun days out.

Find out more >

COURSES

Learn about available courses and get support whether you are a parents/carers or a professional.

Find out more >

HIRE EQUIPMENT

Find out where you can hire equipment.

Find out more >

Some Upcoming Events

Loading…

For parents / carers of children who are awaiting a referral to the neurodevelopmental diagnostic team, on the diagnostic pathway or post diagnosis of autism. Children must be living in North Tyneside. We have the following dates available: Riverside Family Hub, NE29 6DQ 2nd Sept, 7th Oct, 4th Nov and 2nd Dec 2025 Howdon Family Hub, NE28 0AL 9th Sept, 14th Oct, 11th Nov and 9th Dec Shiremoor Family Hub, NE27 0TA 16th Sept, 21st Oct and 18th Nov Supporting your autistic child workshop The workshop will cover: worries and action planning common misconceptions differences in autistic children practical strategies to use in everyday life These sessions will run 10-12 and must be pre-booked. One to one appointments These appointments are for families that have questions or would like to discuss any issues in confidence. These appointments are available between 9-10 and 12.30-4 and must be pre-booked. To book please contact Rebecca Weatherstone on 0191 410 9974 or rebecca.weatherstone@ne-as.org.uk

Nov

North Tyneside Autism Hub

Educational Workshop

Tyne & Wear and surrounds

For parent/carers of children who are on the diagnostic pathway or post diagnosis of autism. Children must be living in Newcastle. Supporting Your Child Workshop These sessions will cover: worries and action planning common misconceptions differences in autistic children practical strategies to use in everyday life These sessions will run 10-12 and must be pre-booked. We have the following dates available: Nunsmoor Centre, Studley Terrace, NE4 5AH 3rd Sept, 1st Oct, 5th Nov and 3rd Dec Galafield Centre, Newbiggin Ln, NE5 1LZ 10th Sept, 8th Oct, 12th Nov and 10th Dec Byker Sands, 19 Raby Cross, NE6 2FF 17th Sept, 15th Oct and 19th Nov Fawdon Childrens, Centre, Cairns Way, NE3 2SN 24th Sept, 22nd Oct and 26th Nov

Nov

Newcastle Autism Support Hub

Educational Workshop

Newcastle and Surrounds

Every Wednesday 5pm – 6pm EVERYONE ACTIVE SOFT PLAY SAFETY POLICY APPLIES – PLEASE ASK AT MAIN RECEPTION FOR MORE DETAILS FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO BOOK YOUR SLOTS PLEASE GIVE US A CALL ON 0191 5144300 SUNDERLAND AQUATIC CENTRE, STADUIM PARK,SUNDERLAND SR51SU

Nov

INCLUSIVE SOFT PLAY SESSIONS

Additional Needs Stay n Play

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

For parents / carers of children who are on the diagnostic pathway or post diagnosis of autism. Children must be living in Durham. One to one appointments These appointments are for families that have questions or would like to discuss any issues in confidence. These appointments are available between 9-10am and 1-3pm and must be pre-booked. Supporting your autistic child workshop The workshop will cover: worries and action planning common misconceptions differences in autistic children practical strategies to use in everyday life These sessions will run 10-12 and must be pre-booked To book please contact Rebecca Weatherstone on 0191 410 9974 or rebecca.weatherstone@ne-as.org.uk Dates and Venues: Stanley Family Hub, Clifford Road, DH9 0AB 7th Aug, 4th Sept, 2nd Oct, 6th Nov and 4th Dec Willington Family Hub, Chapel Street, DL15 0EQ 14th Aug, 11th Sept, 9th Oct, 13th Nov and 11th Dec

Nov

Durham Autism Support Hub

Educational Research Workshop

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

About the event As the legal landscape continues to evolve, charities must stay informed to protect their operations, assets, and legacy. This webinar will provide a practical overview of key developments affecting the sector, including recent changes to UK data protection laws, updates in employment legislation, essential guidance on intellectual property management, and strategies for safeguarding legacy income amid rising inheritance disputes. Join us to gain expert insights and actionable advice to help your charity stay compliant, resilient, and future-ready. Throughout the session we’ll explore: Legacy income and inheritance disputes Engaging donors to grow legacy income involves long-term stewardship. Disputes such as contested wills or unclear intentions can threaten these gifts. We’ll help you to understand the types of dispute which might arise and how evidence of the donor journey can help in contentious probate disputes. Intellectual property awareness Many organisations lack a clear understanding of intellectual property (IP), especially regarding how to protect it. This can lead to complications when collaborating with third parties on content creation, as inadequate IP management may result in unexpected financial demands from those partners. We’ll address the type of IP rights which can protect your organisation and its activities, how to protect […]

Nov

Navigating legal change: What charities need to know

Training Webinar Workshop

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Do you have a child with a vision impairment aged 0-4? Give them the best possible start in life and sign up for our My Time to Play programme today. We offer fun and supportive group sessions to help your child develop the practical skills and confidence to explore their world – all through the power of play. You will meet other parents and pick up skills from our expert staff that will help you support your child’s early development with confidence. Our next programme starts at: Primrose Community Centre, Lambton Terrace, Jarrow, NE32 5QY Thursday (1000 – 1200) fortnightly Find out more at guidedogs.org.uk/mttp or contact our local team 0800 781 1444 mttpnewcastle@guidedogs.org.uk

Nov

My Time to Play – Primrose Community Centre

Additional Needs Family Fun Day Stay n Play

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Group 1 – 10.30am to 12.30pm Group 2 – 1.30pm to 3.30pm Useful Vision invite the whole family to join us for this year’s exclusive Pantomime – ‘Cinderella’! Harriet Louise Productions with Stage Door Events will be whisking you away on a magical adventure in this enchanting pantomime, packed with laughter, music, and dazzling performances! Will Cinderella make it to the ball? Will Prince Charming find the owner of the lost slipper? There’s only one way to find out – don’t miss the fairest pantomime of them all! Saturday 13th December 2025 10:30AM -3:30PM One Strawberry Lane, Strawberry Lane, Newcastle NE1 4BX, UK Book here: https://www.usefulvision.org.uk/events/cinderella-pantomime-groups/

Nov

Cinderella Pantomime Groups with Useful Vision

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds

Join the Useful Vision team with this fun messy workshop that includes hand on experiments, such as slime, gloop making, playdough and so much more. Saturday 15th November 2025 10:00AM -12:00PM The Lemington Centre, Union Hall Road, Lemington, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK Book here: https://www.usefulvision.org.uk/events/lets-get-messy/

Nov

Let’s Get Messy! with Useful Vision

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds

Come along and join the Useful Vision team in the Roaring Rainforest, Planetarium or Music Therapy Room. Feel free to explore all 3 rooms, relax to the music and listen to the rainforest. Saturday 22nd November 2025 11:00AM -12:30PM 4 Baird Close, Washington, Tyne and Wear NE37 3HL, UK Book here: https://www.usefulvision.org.uk/events/the-special-lioness/

Nov

The Special Lioness with Useful Vision

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds

Join the North East Autism Society for a supportive and informative Zoom webinar designed for parents and carers of autistic children and young people aged 7 and above who are experiencing low-level emotional wellbeing difficulties. 📅 Event Dates (Choose One): Monday 30th September 2025 Monday 25th November 2025 🕐 Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm 📍 Location: Online via Zoom 🎟️ Cost: Free (Booking Required) These sessions are repeat webinars, so you only need to attend one date. Places are limited, so early booking is recommended. 💬 What to Expect: Practical strategies to support your child’s emotional wellbeing A safe space to connect with other parents and carers Led by experienced professionals from NEAS 📌 Booking & Contact: 📧 Email: Rebecca.Weatherstone@ne-as.org.uk 📞 Phone: 0191 410 9974 🔗 Follow us on social media: Facebook & Instagram: @NEAutismSociety Twitter/X: @NEAutismSociety

Nov

Supporting Emotional Wellbeing in Autistic Children – Free Webinar

Additional Needs Advice Educational Webinar Workshop

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Parent & Carer Forum (In person) 2 hrs|Free Date & Time 27 November 2025, 12:00 PM Location One Strawberry Lane Gallowgate Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 4BX Description The Parent and Carer Forum provides a platform for families to stay connected and engaged. Topics of Discussion During these meetings, we share information that is useful for families, encourage the exchange of ideas, and discuss plans for future activities and events. Benefits The meetings provide a supportive and welcoming environment, offering families a valuable source of encouragement and community This venue is close to all transport links, is accessible, and has a cafe. Open to any parent or carer registered with NESM. Book here: https://northeastsightmattersltd.co.uk/events/ola/services/parent-carer-forum-in-person-1

Nov

North East Sight Matters Parent & Carer Forum (In Person)

Advice Educational

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Registrations are live for our next online B&A events for 11–25-year-olds. Open for any young person 11-25 years old wop has been impacted by Meningitis. This event is open to the young person who has experienced the disease and their siblings Our 11–17-year-olds will take part in a creative session with The Crafty Hen and our 18–25-year-olds will enjoy a practical session looking at their personal strengths and how to use them to move forward positively in their lives, with Morissa from Family Action https://www.meningitisnow.org/get-support/supporting-young-people/believe-achieve/events-weekends/

Dec

Incoming B&A Online events with Meningitis Now

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Our Santa Grotto Bus welcomes all ages and needs, because everybody deserves the opportunity to meet Santa. This year, we’re in a NEW location! Find us on Nelson Street, between the Christmas Markets and Eldon Square entrance. 🎅🏽 Friday 5th – Sunday 7th December 🎅🏽 Friday 12th – Sunday 14th December While Santa’s sleigh will be getting prepared and polished for its long route on Christmas Eve, the ever-generous team at Stagecoach have very kindly arranged to bring him to Newcastle City Centre on one of their buses to pay children, adults and families in our region a very special visit! We understand that this year especially, money will be tight for most of us, which is why all visits to Santa remain FREE of charge. Our grotto bus is also fully accessible with wheelchair access. We understand that visiting Santa can be an overwhelming experience, and we can’t always predict a child’s mood – we don’t require any booking, just turn up when you can, and our team can make adaptions if your child needs it so that they feel as comfortable as possible. All visits to Santa are completely free, though any donations on-the-day are welcome and […]

Dec

Visit Santa on his magical, fully accessible and inclusive grotto bus this Christmas!

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Time & Location 14 Dec 2025, 09:15 – 10:15 Mercure George Washington Hotel, Stone Cellar Road High, Usworth, Newcastle upon Tyne, Washington NE37 1PH, UK About the event Start your festive morning in style with a magical Santa Breakfast! 🌟 🍳 What’s included: Delicious Full English Breakfast Buffet for each ticket holder A Christmas craft activity at your table A special visit from Santa, coming round to greet you right where you’re seated 🎄🎁 The children will be visiting the one and only Santa Visits North East. 👨‍👩‍👧 Please note: Parents/Carers must also purchase a ticket and will enjoy the same breakfast. ✨ A cosy, festive treat that’s perfect for teens and families to enjoy together! 👫 Siblings are welcome 🚗 Free on-site parking 🎟️ Tickets are non-transferable – please see our cancellation policy on our website: Policies | The Sensory Place https://www.facebook.com/share/14MRiE38PPz/ Book here: https://www.thesensoryplace.net/event-details/santa-breakfast-age-15

Dec

Santa Breakfast – Age 15+

Additional Needs Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Time & Location 14 Dec 2025, 09:45 – 11:00 Mercure George Washington Hotel, Stone Cellar Road High, Usworth, Newcastle upon Tyne, Washington NE37 1PH, UK About the event Step into the magic of Christmas with a festive morning at the George Washington Hotel! 🌟 🎨 Get creative with crafts led by Mrs Claus 🎅 Then, make magical memories as you visit Santa in his grotto – The children will be visiting the one and only Santa Visits North East. 💫 A morning full of creativity, festive fun, and Christmas wonder for the whole family! 👫 Siblings are welcome 🚗 Free on-site parking 🎟️ Tickets are non-transferable – please see our cancellation policy on our website: Policies | The Sensory Place https://www.facebook.com/share/14MRiE38PPz/ Book here: https://www.thesensoryplace.net/event-details/santas-christmas-experience-crafts

Dec

Santa’s Christmas Experience – crafts

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

4.30pm TIP OFF Doors open at 3pm Newcastle Eagles will take on Caledonia Gladiators in this Super League Basketball game. Please note parking at the Arena is £7.50 per Car. The car park sells out well in advance of SLB games!! If you require parking this must be booked ASAP using the link that will be sent to you with your booking confirmation email. Ear defenders are recommended for younger children. No food/liquids to be taken into the venue. The arena is a CARD ONLY venue Sunday 28th December 2025 3:00PM -6:15PM Vertu Motors Arena, Scotswood Road, Newcastle NE4 7AF, UK Book here: https://www.usefulvision.org.uk/events/newcastle-eagles-2/

Dec

Newcastle Eagles with Useful Vision

Family Fun Day

Newcastle and Surrounds

Do you have a child with a vision impairment aged 0-4? Give them the best possible start in life and sign up for our My Time to Play programme today. We offer fun and supportive group sessions to help your child develop the practical skills and confidence to explore their world – all through the power of play. You will meet other parents and pick up skills from our expert staff that will help you support your child’s early development with confidence. Our next programme starts at: Hemlington Lake & Recreation Centre Cass House Road, Middlesbrough, TS8 9QW Thursday (1000 – 1200) fortnightly Starting in January 2026 Find out more at guidedogs.org.uk/mttp or contact our local team 0800 781 1444 mttpnewcastle@guidedogs.org.uk

Jan

My Time to Play – Hemlington Lake & Recreation Centre

Additional Needs Stay n Play

Newcastle and Surrounds Northumberland Tyne & Wear and surrounds

Home

North East CANN – Children’s Additional Need Network

Who Is North East CANN?