Coronavirus update
Due to ongoing precautions being taken to stop the spread of COVID-19 in the UK, Nottinghamshire YMCA has taken the decision to cancel all Onside sessions until further notice. Whilst no positive case of the virus has been confirmed at the service, our absolute top priority is safeguarding the health and wellbeing of our participants and their families, and we are conscious that close contact interaction is at the heart of Onside sessions.
We sincerely apologise for the inconvenience and we will let you know as soon as we have a date for restarting this programme.
OnSide is a community-centric programme featuring sports, skills, competitions and training opportunities for young people with disabilities and their families.
During school term-time, our trained staff delivers activities focusing on a different sport each session, with an emphasis on developing a range of skills and rules whilst playing games and enjoying fun competitions. At Nottinghamshire YMCA, we believe all young people should have access to physical learning activities, regardless of their background.
That is why we work hard to ensure that children enjoy spending time learning new things. Activities may range from soft archery to badminton and football. Drama and dance are our latest additions to the programme!
Session information and details
All sessions are £3 per person.
• Term-time only •
Monday (6.00pm – 7.30pm)
Place: YMCA Youth and Community Centre, Melbourne Park
Activity: Multi-skills session
Age: 10 – 17 years old
Tuesday (6.00pm – 7.30pm)
Place: YMCA Youth and Community Centre, Melbourne Park
Activity: Football
Age: 10 – 17 years old

Book a session
Register your interest in getting involved by contacting us on the below details or completing an enquiry form.
Amy Oakes
YMCA Sports and Family Service Manager
Find us
Read our Blogs!
Creating community for disabled children at Christmas
Laura from Nottinghamshire YMCA’s community sports programme, OnSide, talks about the importance of building a strong community for young people…
Inclusive sport for disabled young people with YMCA OnSide!
New community sports, skills, competitions and training opportunities for young people with disabilities in Nottingham.
FAQs
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My child has a hidden disability – are there limitations on who can attend?
We warmly welcome children of all backgrounds and abilities who want to come along and join in with the fun! Our charity’s mission is to empower all young people to feel safe and supported so they can build the confidence needed to express themselves fully and become the best versions of themselves they can be.
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My child requires one-to-one support – will this be provided by YMCA staff?
We try to deliver one-to-one support where able but encourage young people to be as independent as possible. If your child requires personal support, please speak with the lead staff member on duty before the session so we can discuss options, and ensure the best course of action for your child.
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Can parents/guardians stay for the duration of the session?
Of course! We have a room where you can grab a tea/coffee until the session has finished. We also encourage parents to help provide one-to-one support during the sessions and often run family sessions where everyone can take part.
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Can an adult attend these sessions?
No. The primary aim of OnSide is to create a safe space for young people (aged 10 – 17) coming together to develop and learn new skills as equals and build a better community. If you are an adult interested in participating in our sports activities, contact our YMCA Outdoor and Adventure team gavin.barker@nottsymca.org.
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What is your safeguarding policy?
Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of every child in our care is the YMCA’s absolute top priority at all times. You can read our Safeguarding policy online at https://www.nottsymca.com/safeguarding/
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Can I get a programme of upcoming session activities in advance?
Activities are planned on a week-to-week basis and are often dependant on the number/interests of participants. If you would like to discuss the kind of activities on offer, please email programme leader Amy Oakes amy.oakes@nottsymca.org.
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Can I become a volunteer for YMCA’s children and young people services?
Absolutely! We welcome anyone who can help enhance the experience for our young participants. All volunteers will need to undergo full DBS checks prior to joining YMCA. For more information, please contact Amy Oakes amy.oakes@nottsymca.org.
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