This year, Durham and District Leisure Group (DADLG) celebrates its 35th Anniversary, and what a roller coaster ride it has been! Few people know that DADLG was founded by posties in 1989 as Royal Mail for the Disabled. It began as a cycling group for disabled children to give them the opportunity to learn, meet others, and enjoy exercise in a safe space.
A Journey of 35 Years
While we’ve come a long way from that cycling group, our core purpose—to offer leisure, social, and exercise opportunities to disabled children and their families in an inclusive, caring environment—still underpins everything DADLG does today.
Growing to Serve Over 1,000 Families
DADLG’s membership has grown steadily through the 1990s and 2000s, and exponentially over the past decade, now serving over 1,000 disabled children and their families. Our activities have evolved to meet the diverse needs and interests of all children in the family, from trips and activities to inclusive sports.
Celebrating at Diggerland
To mark our anniversary, we hosted a fantastic event at Diggerland in Durham, attended by nearly 100 families, complete with a special cake, tombola, and two hours of exclusive use of Diggerland rides! One parent shared, “DADLG’s events have given my daughter confidence and joy we never thought possible.” We hope to hold more events like this in the coming years.
Funding Our Mission
Like all nonprofits, funding our activities and keeping them affordable for families is a challenge. We owe a huge debt of gratitude to the many wonderful organisations, individuals and public bodies that have supported us financially over the years because without them we wouldn’t be celebrating our 35th year. This year, we’re thrilled to announce the support of the National Lottery Community Fund, which has provided 50% of the funding we need for the next three years. But we urgently need your help to raise the remaining 50% to continue and expand our vital services.
How You Can Help
Your donation today can create more unforgettable memories for disabled children in Durham and the North East! Every donation makes a big difference.
Can’t donate? You can still help by sharing this post, volunteering, or fundraising on our behalf. Every little bit counts!
