Diverse Abilities

Diverse Abilities is Dorset’s disability charity supporting children and adults with profound physical and learning disabilities across the county since 1955. Mrs Phyllis Edwards formed a group of parents intent on providing better opportunities for their children with physical and learning disabilities. The charity was born after Phyllis discovered untapped need, support, and common purpose amongst other families in Poole and Bournemouth facing similar challenges.

Diverse Abilities has grown steadily since it was established in 1955 and we are proud to be able to boast of having supported hundreds of adults and children over the years. This would not have been possible without the tenacity of Phyllis, her family and everyone that has been involved with Diverse Abilities for the past 60 plus years.

The aim of the team is to enable families of children with physical and/or learning disabilities to cope day to day in the knowledge that their child is safe, supported, and cared for.

The Children’s Team provides a range of services supporting children and young people, plus their families, in Dorset. The team aims to enable families that have children with physical and/or learning disabilities to cope day to day in the knowledge that their child is safe, supported and cared for.

Opportunities are also given to siblings to attend play sessions with their brother or sister while parents and guardians can benefit from various information and support services.

The team offer short breaks during the weekend and overnight, provide practical support in the home and out in the local community, plus holiday, weekend and after school activities to ensure those young people with disabilities live life to the full. The team also provide day care for young people transitioning to an adult.

We want to ensure all the children we support at Diverse Abilities have an enjoyable childhood while helping families cope with the pressures, they face caring for a child with lifetime disabilities.

Our Mission

To enable children and adults with disabilities to achieve their full potential by providing a lifetime of sustainable support and educational services.

Our Vision

To be the leading disability charity locally offering the broadest choice of high-quality services tailored to individual needs.

To find more activities commissioned by the council please click here.

Scroll down to see all of our activities and projects below: