Springboard is proud to be celebrating its 40th anniversary, marking 4 decades of supporting families with children under 5 with special educational needs and disabilities.
Founded in Clevedon in 1986 by a small group of local mothers who were unable to find the support their children needed, Springboard began as a grassroots initiative run from village halls. Driven by determination, time and care, the founders created the service they wished had existed for their own families.
Since then, Springboard has grown significantly and now supports more than 150 families every year. The charity operates four settings, including three in Weston-super-Mare, and employs 45 staff.
Sonya Cassidy, Actor and Springboard Ambassador shares “This wonderful milestone is a testament to the vision of those who founded Springboard 40 years ago, and to the talent and perseverance of the team today, who are dedicated to the next generation of children with SEND in North Somerset. So many lives have been transformed and many more deserve the same. Here’s to Springboard, here’s to our community making it possible, and here’s to the next 40 and beyond.”
Springboard’s CEO, Ruth Glover says, ‘The early years can be overwhelming for families of children with SEND. For 40 years, Springboard has supported thousands of families at that time. We’ve grown as an organisation, but our purpose hasn’t changed. Our focus is on creating a supportive community where young children with SEND and their families are empowered to thrive.’
As part of our 40th anniversary celebrations, we would love to reconnect with past Springboard families and supporters. If you or your family have been part of the Springboard journey, we would be delighted to hear your story. Please contact us at info@springboardweb.org.uk.
There will be a range of activities taking place throughout the year to celebrate this milestone and to raise vital funds to support future families. We look forward to sharing more details soon.
