Building an Inclusive Partnership: 21 Together & Leeds Castle
At 21 Together, we are always looking for ways to enhance the lives of children and young people with Down’s syndrome. When the opportunity arose to collaborate with Leeds Castle, it was an exciting prospect that has since blossomed into a wonderful partnership. This partnership focuses on enhancing accessibility and inclusivity at one of the UK's most beloved historic sites.
How It All Began
Leeds Castle embarked on a mission to strengthen its ties with the local community, enlisting an external company to help refine and improve their community engagement efforts. As part of this initiative, they reached out to various groups, including ours, to ensure their services and attractions could be more accessible to all. Our families were invited to a special day trip to Leeds Castle, where we provided valuable feedback on accessibility for young people with Down’s syndrome. This experience laid the foundation for an ongoing collaboration that continues to grow.
A Growing Relationship
Leeds Castle’s enthusiasm and commitment to inclusivity have been evident from the very start. Since our initial visit, they have actively sought ways to support 21 Together and our families. Over the past year, we have been invited to exclusive Christmas visits, providing our young people with magical festive experiences in a welcoming environment.
More recently, Leeds Castle introduced Fidget Backpacks, designed for children and young people with sensory challenges. Our families were given the opportunity to test and provide feedback on these resources, further highlighting the castle’s dedication to making their attractions as inclusive as possible.
Looking Ahead
Our partnership with Leeds Castle continues to thrive. We are thrilled to have our S Club group booked in for an upcoming day trip, where we will have access to their newly renovated pavilion. This quiet space will serve as a comfortable retreat for lunch and relaxation, ensuring that all our young people feel at ease during their visit. The connection we have built with Leeds Castle is truly invaluable. Working alongside such an iconic and historic site has been an incredible experience, and we are excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. As we continue to strengthen this partnership, we look forward to more inclusive experiences, thoughtful initiatives, and a shared commitment to accessibility. Here’s to a bright future with Leeds Castle – a place that is not only rich in history but also in heart.