Reach is a national charity founded in 1978 for people with upper limb difference/s. As a valued member of the Reach and the upper limb difference community, you can look forward to a host of events, opportunities, and support throughout the year:
Branch Meet Ups
Local Reach Branch get-togethers and events (around 2per year). Fun, relaxed meet-ups with local members and families near you, helping Reach families and young people make meaningful connections within the upper limb difference community.
Reach Activity Week (RAW)
In July/August every year, Reach children aged 10–17 go away for a week of fun, friend-making, and fresh air on a Reach Activity Week. Adventure and plenty of action is guaranteed; from climbing, abseiling and canoeing to problem solving, archery and coasteering.
Reach’s Regional family weekends
Family-focused weekends balancing activities and relaxation inviting you to connect with other Reach families all around the UK. Currently in South Wales, Scotland, North West and East Anglia.
The Reach Annual Family Weekend
Reach’s National Annual Family Event in October; an annual conference all about sharing lived experiences, inspiring stories, invaluable resources, and reconnecting the Reach family.
NEW! The Reach Retreat for 18–25s
A special long weekend designed just for young adult members to connect, share, chill and equip them for life’s next big steps.
Reach Membership Benefits:
- Welcome pack – A special care pack for new parents with information about what to expect, the support available to them, and how Reach can help along the way.
- Within Reach Magazine (3x per year) – Reach’s own publication, sharing the voices of our upper limb difference community; real stories, celebrations, events, inspiration and representation, all delivered straight to your door and available to read online.
- Insurance: Any Member in the UK with congenital upper limb difference or who acquired an upper limb difference in childhood, who have had one or both of their upper limbs seriously damaged or amputated in an accident.
- Reach Blog: NEW! Articles from Within Reach magazine and fresh pieces about lived experiences, editorials, interviews and features all centred around upper limb difference and your community.
- Social Media Community – Public platforms focusing on representation and awareness, and private groups providing a safe space for sharing and celebration within our community. Stay connected with the wider community, ask questions, and share experiences.
- Your local WhatsApp Group (optional sign-up) for easy, real-time updates and friendly chats with families in your area.
- Access to the Reach Bursary fund for essential equipment and adaptations.
- Equipment hire scheme – one-handed recorders and various other instruments, plus a ‘try before you buy’ loan scheme for useful equipment like swim paddles and a variety of scissors and gadgets.