Keynsham & District Mencap

Providing Opportunities, Friendships, and Fun for Adults and Children with Learning Disabilities and Autism

About Us

Who We Are

We are a local self-funded charity dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children with learning disabilities and autism. Through our friendly, inclusive clubs and activities we help our members build confidence, make friends, and enjoy life to the fullest. Our groups also provide valuable respite for parents and carers.

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I have three children that are part of Keynsham Mencap. I have always found the staff and volunteers friendly, good company for my youngsters, full of good ideas and lots of energy!

What We Offer

Social Clubs For Children

Play and Shine (New in 2026)

9.30-11.30am, Tuesday & Thursday (term time only)

Birth to 4 years old with emerging needs (no diagnosis needed)

Free of charge, based in Keynsham

SENSations Under 11s

5.45 – 7.15pm, Tuesday  (term time only)

5 to 11 years old

Based in Keynsham

SENSations Over 11s

5.45 – 7.15pm, Thursdays  (term time only)

11 to 18 years old

Based in Keynsham

Super Saturday Club

10 – 12pm, Saturdays (term time only)

5 to 18 years old

Based in Keynsham

Social Clubs For Adults

GoExplore –  Social Club for Young Adults

7 – 9pm Wednesdays

18 – 25 years old

Based in Keynsham

Club25 – Adults Social Club

7.30 – 9.30pm, Thursdays

25 years and older

Based in Keynsham

Music Man Project Bristol and Bath

10.30 – 12.30pm, Saturdays

Over 18s

Based in Oldland Common

Fitness For All

7 – 9pm, Mondays

Over 18s

Based in Keynsham

Football Club

7 – 8.30pm, Tuesdays

Over 18s

Based in Keynsham

Boccia Club

5 – 6pm, Wednesdays

Over 18s

Based in Keynsham

Making a difference

Our Impact

Children’s clubs – SENSations & Super Saturday

What parents tell us:

✓ 100% of surveyed parents of SENSations over 11s rate the club 4–5 stars for overall satisfaction.

✓ 100% feel welcomed and included by staff and volunteers, and 100% rate communication as “Excellent” or “Good”.

✓ Every parent would recommend the club to another family.

✓ Parents report big gains in confidence, communication and willingness to try new things for their children, alongside reduced feelings of isolation.

 

“Our child has felt included, excited and is given a chance to socialise outside school with children like themselves… you have helped our family so much.”
Parent, SENSations over 11s

Young Adults – Go Explore

What parents tell us:

 

✓ Parents tell us Go Explore gives their young people the confidence to try new places and experiences with friends.

✓ Regular sessions provide structure and routine, reducing anxiety and helping young people feel more independent in the community.

✓ Families say the support of staff and volunteers makes trips and activities possible that would be too difficult on their own.

 

“We are more relaxed knowing our son is happy and simultaneously building up his confidence and independence in a friendly, happy, safe environment. It also provides valuable time for us as parents.”
Parent, GoExplore

Club25 - Adults Social Club

What the numbers show:

 

77% of members come to Club25 every week, showing how important it is as a regular part of their lives.

100% say they feel welcome and included, treated with respect and kept safe by staff and volunteers.

Members tell us Club25 helps them feel more confident and independent, make friendships and be part of the wider local community.

 

“Friendships made and kept at Mencap. See them all together, encouraging and helping each other, cheering each other on whether it’s sports or raffle prizes! The atmosphere is out of this world, and priceless.
Members, Club25

Music Man Project Bristol and Bath

What the numbers show:

✓ All survey respondents come to Music Man Project every week, reflecting how important the group is in their lives.

✓ 100% feel welcomed and included, respected and happy at club.

✓ 100% say Music Man has improved their music skills and gives them a sense of achievement from learning new skills.

✓ Most say it helps them feel more independent and part of the wider local community.

✓ Across just three months there were three public performances giving members the chance to shine on stage.

 

“I love singing and playing instruments… Going to concerts, especially the Albert Hall. Music Man gives me new experiences and the chance to perform.
Music Man Project Member

Fitness for All Club

What the numbers show:

 

✓ All surveyed members attend Fitness Club every week, showing how important it is as a regular anchor in their lives.

✓ 100% say they feel welcomed and included, treated with respect and happy when they are at club.

✓ Members tell us coming to Fitness Club helps them be more active, get fitter, make safe friendships and feel part of the wider local community.

 

“Thank you Keynsham Mencap for providing M with so many wonderful opportunities to try new things and to meet new people.
Parent, Fitness Club

Fun

Inclusive clubs, lively activities, and something different every week, so everyone can share laughter and good times together

Friendship

Meet new people, build lasting friendships, and feel truly welcomed in a supportive, vibrant community

Experience

Try new sports, music, arts, and trips out sparking discovery, imagination, and personal growth every year.

Confidence

Achieve goals, try new things, and celebrate personal progress with encouragement at every step together

FAQ

Frequently Asked Question

Who can become a member of Keynsham Mencap?

Anyone with a learning disability or autism living in the Keynsham, Bristol and Bath area can join. We welcome children from age 5, young adults, and adults.

What types of clubs and activities do you offer?

We run 9 weekly clubs including sports, music, fitness, and social groups, plus special events, day trips, and our Club25 group enjoy annual holidays.

How do I join a club or become a member?

Contact us via phone or email to get an application form. You can also visit our clubs for an arranged taster session to meet staff and volunteers before joining.

Upcoming Events

Be Ready For Our Events

Explore our latest events including exciting fundraising events and inclusive activities and celebrations. There’s always something happening for members, families, and supporters to enjoy.

5:00 pm

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Our Amazing Volunteers

Volunteer Stories

Kristy

Kristy

I started volunteering in 1996 when I was asked by a family friend if I was able to help out a...

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Molly

Molly

I have been volunteering with Mencap since October 2016 – I started at only 15 years old. I can...

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Mel

Mel

 I was lucky enough to escape the rat race and corporate world in my 40’s and suddenly found...

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Clubs

Members

Club Places

Volunteer Hours

Blog

Latest News

Come On You Reds!

Come On You Reds!

On Saturday afternoon, we went to watch Bristol City take on Sheffield Wednesday at Ashton Gate Stadium in Bristol,...

A Fabulous Night at Mamma Mia!

A Fabulous Night at Mamma Mia!

A Fabulous Night at Mamma Mia! The Musical On Wednesday 19th November, members, volunteers and staff from Keynsham...

Halloween Spook-tacular

Halloween Spook-tacular

On Tuesday 28th October 2025, we held the first of our annual Halloween Spook-tacular — and what a fantastic afternoon...

Newsletters

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