Tilly’s condition means she has significant developmental delay, very limited language, extreme ADHD and communicates via Makaton sign language. Tilly is an incredibly loving and caring young person with an overflowing love of life. She also finds water very calming.

Tilly first joined our Aiming High Club five years ago and needed a lot of support from her parents during her first sessions. She wouldn’t enter the water without holding mum or dad’s hand.

Today, confidence has truly blossomed in Tilly thanks to Aiming High. She’s the first kitted up and is always hugely excited to spend the morning with instructors and other children. Her ability to play with and enjoy the company of other children has improved incredibly – she loves both the staff and the other children. She’s also found new independence and attends without her dad.

The impact of the Aiming High Club has been felt by Tilly’s family too. Seeing his daughter grow in confidence has been of huge importance to Tilly’s dad Steve too.

“I couldn’t hold the staff in higher regard. They have improved Tilly’s life and also mine. A truly incredible enterprise. Thank you all.”

Steve Appleby, Tilly’s dad

Aiming High Club runs at our Portsmouth and Portland centres and is designed for children with SEND who can participate in activities within a small-group setting with shared instructor support. You can find out more here.