Mid Devon Alliance for Special Children was formed in 2001 when the Elm Park Family Centre in Tiverton closed down and the two groups using the Centre needed to find other premises.  Parents, staff, volunteers and other interested individuals came together to lead the initiative, and by July 2002 a Constitution had been agreed which focussed on the ethos of MASC. The continuing survival of the charity relies mainly on successful year on year fundraising and Saturday Club fees. 

WHAT WE PROVIDE

Our core business is to provide out of school activities for children and young people with special needs in a safe and friendly environment.

Friday Night Youth Club 

In 2003 MASC received funding to explore the possibility of a Youth Club which led to a trial Youth Club opening in August 2004. In March 2007 the Youth Club members won a National Award recognising the ongoing success of the club.

This Club has flourished and is now operating out of the Tiverton Youth Centre on Friday evenings three times a month catering for 11 – 19 year olds. We also offer members the opportunity to become involved in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, subject to funding. In 2010 six of our young people received bronze awards and two hope to go on to take their silver.  Average attendance 15 – 20 young people.

Saturday Club 

In July 2004 MASC was commissioned to manage the Starburst Club, which was a CSN Club (Children with Special Needs) Devon Children Fund (DCF) Project.  This was a Saturday Club for Children with Special Needs (5 to 16 years) operating in term time only. This club ceased in December 2006.

However since November 2007 we have been providing a twice monthly Saturday Club for 9 to 16 year olds with more complex needs operating out of the Tiverton Youth Centre.  16 Registered places are available of which 14 are currently taken.