A service that provides a ‘lifeline’ for children with disabilities is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Coping with CHAOS, Weymouth, is a service led by Dorset-based charity, Diverse Abilities. For the past decade it has supported many children with disabilities, their siblings and parents by providing play sessions and advice to families in need.

Mum Lesley Mellor set up the west Dorset branch of Coping with CHAOS after the school attended by her son, who has autism, couldn’t offer her much support.

She felt more was needed in the area to help her and other parents so, in 2007, she started offering play sessions at Wyvern School during the school holidays. Thanks to Dorset County Council funding the service moved to The Hub at Weymouth Outdoor Education Centre in April this year.

The Hub was initially empty and funding helped purchase special educational needs equipment and develop it into a facility that would be beneficial to children with disabilities and their families. The service now supports 43 families in Weymouth.

Ms Mellor said: “The importance of play cannot be underestimated. Play is the way children and young people explore the world around them and make friends. It allows them to learn through curiosity and invention and develops the creative process. It supports their physical and emotional wellbeing, providing opportunities for positive social interaction, learning, health and independence.

“It is also really beneficial for siblings, who are often carers themselves and frequently receive less attention than their disabled sibling.”

Samuel Coffen,15, has Angelman syndrome and epilepsy and, joined by his mum Amelia and 11-year-old brother Willoughby, has been attending play sessions in Weymouth since the service formed in 2007.

Ms Coffen, said: “When Samuel was younger I found it very hard to find things to do with him. Then CHAOS came along and it was a lifeline. The sessions are safe and Samuel and his brother are looked after.

“For Samuel, the sessions stimulate him, give him physical exercise and provide opportunities to experience things he may not have otherwise had the chance.”

For more information, contact Coping with CHAOS on 01202 855105 or visit diverseabilities.org.uk/chaos