New website launched!

About Ohana

Ohana was established in 2015 as a parent-led group dedicated to offering support, friendship, and a sense of community to families navigating the challenges of raising children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND).

Shortly after gaining charitable status that same year, we grew into a vibrant network of parents and carers who joined forces to create meaningful change. Together, we organised activities, built support networks, and hosted events to uplift families in and around the Ripon area.

Today, Ohana is entering an exciting new chapter! Thanks to funding from the National Lottery, we’re relaunching and expanding our services to better support our families. Our mission is to empower families to feel stronger, more connected, and optimistic about the future. While life may look different, we believe it can still be deeply rewarding when challenges are shared, and support is available.

Join us as we continue to grow and make a difference in our community!

Learn More

We're Hiring!

Join Our Team: Teen Club Leader (Saturdays)

Ohana is looking for a passionate and dedicated Teen Club Leader to join our team. This role offers a wonderful opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of young people with special educational needs and disabilities. As Teen Club Leader, you’ll help create a safe, inclusive, and engaging space where teens can connect, grow, and have fun.

Key Details:

  • 🕓 Hours: 4 hours every Saturday

  • 🤝 Job Share: We are open to applications from those interested in a job share

  • 📍 Location: Ripon

What We’re Looking For:

We’re seeking someone who is:

  • Energetic, empathetic, and enthusiastic

  • Experienced in working with young people, particularly those with SEND

  • Confident in leading activities and supporting a team

  • Committed to inclusion, kindness, and positive youth engagement

Interested?

We’d love to hear from you!
For more information or to apply, please email: [email protected]

Together, we can make a lasting impact. 💛

 

Our Funding Campaign

Support Ohana While You Shop Online!

As a small charity, donations are vital to helping us achieve our mission. You can make a difference every time you shop online! With easyfundraising, you can support Ohana at no extra cost. Shop with over 4,000 top retailers, including Amazon, Argos, John Lewis, and ASOS, and they’ll donate a percentage of your purchase to Ohana.

It’s simple, free, and makes giving back effortless. Start supporting Ohana today – happy shopping!

Get Started

Volunteer Opportunities

Join Our Team and Make a Difference!

Are you passionate about supporting families of children with special educational needs and disabilities?

Do you want to create a positive impact in your local community?

Are you working towards a childcare qualification and looking for hands-on experience?

We’re on the lookout for dedicated volunteers to join our mission!

For more information, reach out to us at [email protected]

Together, we can make a meaningful difference. 🌟

 

Contact Us

Private Facebook Group

Join our ‘Ohana parent support’ Facebook group where parents can ask questions, share worries and support one another in a safe, closed forum.

Visit Page

Saturday Play Club

Our Play Club is a welcoming and inclusive space for children aged 0-10 with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. Held every Saturday from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm at Ripon Community House, Play Club offers a safe and supportive environment where children can play, explore, and socialise, and families can connect with one another.

Visit Page

Saturday Teen Club

Teen Club is a welcoming and inclusive space designed for neurodiverse teenagers aged 11–17 (secondary school age). We meet every Saturday morning from 10:00am to 12:00pm at Ripon Workhouse Museum for a fun, relaxed, and social experience.

Visit Page

Swimming

After the success of our swimming sessions pre-Covid, we are hoping to provide information about sessions in the near future. Check back for more information or visit our Facebook page for updates.

What's On

Join Our Facebook Group!

Explore Now