Aim

We are raising funds to create safe, inclusive and accessible outdoor spaces where disabled children can experience nature

Welcome to our project

Every child deserves the chance to learn, grow and thrive outdoors

For many children, playing in the garden, planting flowers or watching vegetables grow are everyday experiences.

For many disabled children, they are not.

At Make Them Smile, we believe disability should never prevent a child from experiencing the joy, freedom and wellbeing that nature can bring.

That's why we've created Inclusive Outdoor Learning for Children.

Our project helps schools, specialist settings and community organisations create welcoming outdoor learning spaces where disabled children can safely explore nature, grow fruit, vegetables and flowers, learn about wildlife and develop practical life skills through hands-on environmental learning.

Why this matters

Being outdoors is about so much more than fresh air.

Research consistently shows that spending time in nature can improve mental wellbeing, confidence, communication, physical health and social development.

Unfortunately, many disabled children face barriers that mean they miss out on these opportunities every day.

Without suitable outdoor environments, many children are unable to fully participate in gardening, environmental education and outdoor learning alongside their peers.

We want to change that.

Creating opportunities that last

With your support we will help schools and community organisations create inclusive outdoor learning spaces that children can enjoy for years to come.

Funding will help provide:

🌱 Raised planting areas

🌼 Flowers, vegetables and sensory planting

♻️ Composting and sustainable growing equipment

🌿 Wildlife-friendly habitats

🪴 Gardening equipment and learning resources

🌍 Environmental education activities

Every project will encourage children to learn about biodiversity, sustainable food growing, recycling, composting and caring for the natural environment while developing confidence, independence and practical skills.

Why your support matters

Your donation won't simply buy gardening equipment.

It will help create places where disabled children can:

🌻 learn

🌻 explore

🌻 make friends

🌻 build confidence

🌻 improve wellbeing

🌻 connect with nature

🌻 discover a lifelong love of the environment

Together we can ensure every child has the opportunity to enjoy the physical, emotional and educational benefits of outdoor learning.

How we'll spend the money raised

£3,500 – Inclusive outdoor learning spaces
Creating and enhancing outdoor learning areas with raised planters, growing beds, child-friendly gardening equipment and sensory planting to ensure disabled children can participate alongside their peers.

£2,000 – Sustainable growing and environmental resources
Composting systems, water butts, recycled growing containers, environmental education resources and sustainable gardening materials that encourage climate awareness and responsible environmental stewardship.

£2,000 – Plants, seeds and biodiversity
Fruit and vegetable seeds, pollinator-friendly flowers, fruit trees, herbs, compost and soil improvers to create vibrant, wildlife-friendly outdoor learning environments.

£1,500 – Accessibility and sensory improvements
Inclusive features such as accessible pathways, seating, sensory planting and learning resources that help children with a wide range of additional needs enjoy and benefit from outdoor spaces.

£1,000 – Project delivery and volunteer support
Coordinating the project, supporting volunteers, delivering resources to schools and community settings, safeguarding and measuring the project's impact.

How you can help

❤️ Donate

Every contribution helps create inclusive outdoor learning opportunities for disabled children.

📢 Share

Sharing our campaign with friends, family and colleagues helps us reach more supporters and unlock even greater impact.

🤝 Volunteer

If you'd like to get involved, we'd love to hear from you. Whether you can offer practical help, gardening expertise or simply your enthusiasm, you can make a real difference.

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 5th November 2026 at 11:30am