The Yard is the only play and family facility in Edinburgh and the Lothians suitable for disabled children that is open throughout the school holidays. The service was used in the seven week school summer holiday in 2008 by 1260 children demonstrating the grave need for the facility to be open. There are 430 that we are aware of who are currently in need of support during the holidays. Families currently only receive 2-3 weeks support from statutory sources in the summer holidays and no provision is made for the remaining 10 to 11 weeks. Our sessions give families the opportunity to alleviate this difficulty. Many families would say that The Yard makes an immeasurable difference to the life of the children who use it. Besides giving children a safe place to play it gives children and their parents and carers a community. On a more practical level the play sessions enhance children’s confidence and self esteem. It also helps children come to terms with their own disability as they become aware of their own differences. Equally important for the children is the impact the Yard has on parents and parenting. Besides providing informal respite, meeting other parents who are facing similar challenges gives the parents the chance to build a network of support and understanding which helps ease the difficulties that are often faced. Total cost £41,394 annually BBC Children in Need £8,760 Shortfall £32,634