A Reason To Get Up

A Reason To Get Up

Step into a world where fun and learning know no bounds.

A Reason to Get Up (ARTGU) is a vibrant year-round programme of experiences and learning for young adults with learning disabilities and autism.  

ARTGU is more than just a safe and accessible space. It’s also a hub of excitement and discovery for people with learning disabilities or autism.

Whether you’re a bowling enthusiast, disco dancer, theatre lover, music maestro or sports star-in-the-making, we offer something for everyone.  

Our activities take place during the working week, in the evening, during the holidays, and at weekends. So, there’s no excuse for not getting involved!

We gather impact information by:

Daytime Outcome Based Sessions

Designed specifically for young adults with learning disabilities and autism who might not be in full-time work or education, our daytime activities programme is a beacon of light, igniting passion and purpose in every participant.

Fit Club

This activity will aim to promote an active and healthier lifestyle towards positive physical and mental health.

Join Fit Club for an exciting journey towards a healthier, happier you! Through our partnership with a local gym, we offer dynamic weekly gym sessions, diverse monthly exercise classes (think yoga, boxfit, tai chi for example), and engaging weekly discussions on health and wellness topics. Let's make fitness fun together!

A Reason To Get Up
About Building Futures

IT Crowd

Join the IT Crowd for STEM-focused sessions every week! 

Dive into simplified tech industry software and boost your IT skills. From game making to 3D printing, coding to internet safety, each session is packed with fun and learning. Don't miss out – join us for an engaging and educational experience!

Crafty Creations

Embark on a journey with Crafty Creations, where art and imagination flourish!

Led by an experienced art tutor, our sessions offer a safe, inclusive space for creative exploration. Get ready to unleash your inner artist as you dive into a variety of craft and art techniques. From painting to sculpture, there's something for everyone to discover and experiment with.Crafty Creations is proud to partner with Watts Gallery, Disability Arts in Surrey, Farnham UCA and Disability Arts in Surrey to offer artists the chance to develop new skills and showcase their work. Join us for a journey of creativity, learning, and endless possibilities!

Welcome to a World of Possibility
Ensuring every young person has an active social life

Cook & Grow

Welcome to Cook and Grow, where we're proud recipients of the 2023 Guildford in Bloom Silver award!

Our sessions are more than just gardening and cooking – they're an adventure into the world of food! We'll show young people the magic of food from seed to plate, teaching them about nutrition, the joys of growing their own produce, and how to turn ordinary ingredients into extraordinary meals.

Join us at our local kitchen garden for hands-on learning experiences. From planting seeds to mastering culinary techniques, every moment is filled with fun and discovery. Plus, as their skills blossom, we offer opportunities for training and real-world experience at community events. Let's cook, grow, and create together!

Current partners for daytime sessions

University of CambridgeGoogleMclarenAccentureTom TomCancer researchCisco LogoChubb LogoNationwideVictor Logo
University of CambridgeGoogleMclarenAccentureTom TomCancer researchCisco LogoChubb LogoNationwideVictor Logo
University of CambridgeGoogleMclarenAccentureTom TomCancer researchCisco LogoChubb LogoNationwideVictor Logo

The Reality of Today’s Situation

1 in 100

people are autistic (National Autistic Society)

34%

of adults with learning disabilities have no more than yearly contact with friends (Mencap)

Our Outcomes

We view our outcomes as the genuine real life changes that people make with us, or after they leave our programme. We are trying to build their futures. Some example outcomes for young people have included…

Learning & Skills Development

Gaining practical skills in cooking, gardening, budgeting, and health
Learning how to grow food from seed to plate through Cook & Grow
Learning how to prepare healthy, nutritious meals independently
Earning hands-on experience in local kitchen gardens
Improving digital literacy and mastering basic IT tools
Learning internet safety, coding, game design, and 3D printing in IT Crowd
Developing craft and art skills through Crafty Creations
Exploring STEM-based activities in a supportive setting
Gaining confidence in using gym equipment and understanding
health through Fit Club
Learning how to stay safe online and in your local community
Gaining skills in time management, communication, and
decision-making in Life Skills
Developing independence in navigating relationships and personal life

Health, Wellbeing & Independence

Participating in weekly fitness sessions and monthly exercise
classes (yoga, tai chi, boxfit)
Understanding physical and mental health through wellness discussions
Building healthy habits and routines for life
Feeling more confident to live independently and make informed choices
Boosting resilience and wellbeing through structured, supportive learning
Becoming more active, strong, and self-aware
Gaining a sense of purpose and achievement from participating
in regular sessions

Creativity & Self-Expression

Exploring art in a safe and inclusive environment
Creating work through painting, sculpture, and mixed media
Participating in public exhibitions and creative events
Expressing individual identity and imagination through Crafty Creations
Receiving mentorship from professional artists and arts partners
Building pride in personal creativity and original work

Community Engagement & Social Integration

Taking part in community gardening and cookery events
Showcasing talents and skills at public events and exhibitions
Representing ARTGU through collaborations with partner organisations
Attending social, seasonal and weekend events
Connecting with new peers and building lasting friendships
Feeling part of a purposeful, community-led programme
Volunteering at halow events and becoming an advocate for ARTGU
Participating in a vibrant committee that helps shape the programme

Confidence, Leadership & Fun

Our young people gain confidence through engaging, fun sessions
Presenting ideas and helping design activities
Exploring new experiences and trying things for the first time
Feeling proud of their achievements and excited to keep learning
Leading group projects and developing responsibility
Laughing, relaxing, and having fun in a safe, supportive space
Living life to the fullest with A Reason To Get Up
Join Us

Why stay in bed when a world of adventure is waiting for you?

Join us today because every day is a reason to get up and shine.

Why stay in bed when a world of adventure is waiting for you?

Contact us

Complete our short form to get in touch with us. We’ll get back to you ASAP with more information.

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