Portsmouth Teenage Project, delivered by Enable Ability, continues to play a vital role in supporting young people across the city, providing a safe, welcoming and engaging space for those aged 11-16 with physical disabilities, mild to moderate learning disabilities, or additional needs, where they are able to take part in meaningful activities alongside others with shared experiences.
While the Easter holiday programme offers a glimpse into what the Project can provide, the true value is seen in the consistent, year-round opportunities that allow young people to step away from the pressures often associated with school life, giving them the chance to relax, socialise and enjoy themselves in an environment where they feel comfortable and understood.
For many of the young people who attend, school can present a range of challenges, whether that be academically, socially or emotionally, and having access to a setting where those pressures are reduced can make a significant difference, as success is no longer measured through exam results but through participation, engagement and personal progress.
Throughout both term-time sessions and holiday activities, we regularly see young people develop in confidence over time, often starting out feeling unsure or reserved, before gradually becoming more willing to take part, communicate with others and build friendships, all of which contributes to a noticeable increase in self-esteem and independence.
The group-based nature of the Project plays an important role in this development, as it allows young people to interact with their peers on a regular basis, helping them to build social skills in a natural and supportive way, while also encouraging teamwork, patience and mutual respect, which are all transferable skills that benefit them in everyday life.
Behind each session is a team of trained and experienced staff who understand how to support a wide range of needs, ensuring that activities are adapted where necessary so that every young person is able to take part in a way that suits them, allowing them to feel included, valued and capable regardless of their individual circumstances.
The range of activities available, both during the holidays and throughout the year, is designed not only to be enjoyable but also to support the development of important life skills, including decision-making, communication, independence and confidence when experiencing new environments, all of which contribute to their wider personal growth.
A large proportion of the young people who attended over Easter were able to do so through the Government-funded Healthy Activities and Food Programme (otherwise known as HAF), which made it possible for families to access a full programme of activities at no cost, while also ensuring that each day included a shared mealtime and gentle encouragement around making positive lifestyle choices, something that naturally became part of the Easter programme rather than something formally taught, helping young people to build confidence not just socially, but in everyday routines that support their well-being.
The Easter programme provided a week of shared experiences that brought young people together, allowing them to strengthen existing friendships while forming new ones, all within a relaxed and supportive setting where they could enjoy a break from routine and create lasting memories.
Portsmouth Teenage Project continues to be an important part of many young people’s lives across the city, offering not just activities, but a sense of belonging and an opportunity to grow in confidence over time, supported by both staff and peers who understand and encourage them.
As the Project continues to run throughout the year, the progress seen in the young people who attend serves as a reminder of the importance of providing inclusive opportunities such as this, where every individual is given the chance to develop at their own pace in a positive and supportive environment.
Bring on the May half term!
All the photos taken below are from the six-day programme of activities that took place over the Easter 2026 holiday scheme.
