Spectrum Testimonials

We are fortunate that we have received some really kind words through all the members that we support and the organisations and venues that we work with to deliver our events and services. These testimonials, reviews, thoughts, and feedback also played a huge part in us winning the Cambridge Live Community Awards and Luminus Inspiration Awards, which also means a great deal to us all.

Spectrum is always proactive with the feedback that it receives, ensuring that it is used to improve further the events and support we provide.

Here is a sample of just some of the feedback that Spectrum has received on its journey so far.

Spectrum are winners of the Community Inspiration Awards
Spectrum are proud to be supported by the National Lottery Fund
Spectrum are winners of the Community Awards

#WEARESPECTRUM

Spectrum
Stephanie
(Burwell)

“Don’t know how you do it but please keep doing what you’re doing! Means so much to so many families ❤️”

Spectrum
Keisha
(London)

“Justin and Amanda were super helpful and extremely responsive. An excellent example of how customer service should be! Thank you both for helping us. “

Spectrum
Gemma
(Soham)

“Thank you for the virtual coffee mornings they got me through lockdown and my time shielding!”

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Laura
(Witchford)

“Spectrum is a great organisation, run by fabulous people who care about the families that Spectrum support. Spectrum gives families the opportunity to experience days out with other families who understand how difficult things can be, whilst not being judgemental.”

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Terri
(Ely)

“This was out 1st trip with you guys and it was fab! We had such a fab day! The kids loved it and everyone was super friendly x x 😀👌”

Spectrum
Jordon
Mildenhall

“Our first contact with Spectrum was for the Max Card service which has been really easy to complete and a really handy card to have especially for days out. Since then we have attended a few different sessions, a trip to Colchester Zoo and 2 pantomimes which we have thoroughly enjoyed. It allows us to feel less stressed when attending these events as we know the other parents understand our son’s situation. The Spectrum team are very friendly and helpful. Couldn’t recommend them enough.”

Spectrum
Alison
(Cambridge)

“To allow my son the chance to do ‘normal’ activities, with others that understand and do not judge is just what every parent wants for their child. Support from staff and other families is a breathe of fresh air, when at activities. Having dates in the diary to actually look forward too is quite amazing for us. Spectrum has allowed us all of these, I wish I had found them sooner!”

Chris Walthew
Owner - Clip n Climb Cambridge

“It’s an absolute pleasure to support Spectrum, which we’ve done since they started up as a charity. The Spectrum team are also real gems to work with and run the charity with heart and dedication. I would strongly recommend other businesses to look at supporting this fantastic charity.”

Spectrum
Nikki
(Haddenham)

“Thanks very much! – Our Max Card arrived safely today. The handwritten slip was lovely and made me smile!”

Spectrum
Dave & Gill
(Haddenham)

“Honoured to be involved with Spectrum Cambridge, the work that they do for their members is outstanding. Children and adults alike get great enjoyment from the organised events, and it’s lovely seeing the children derive pleasure from the activities, and be in an environment with other understanding families.”

Daniel Bell
Director - KD Theatre

“We are very proud to work with Spectrum and support the amazing work they do with young people. The events and support they offer families is truly inspiring!”

Spectrum
Hannah
(Prickwillow)

“Family days out have always been tricky with Jack but finding Spectrum has been brilliant and taken the anxiety and worry away. He’s able to run around being silly and free without people judging. He loves the monthly climbing sessions and the animal petting experience best. Many thanks to Justin and the team for all their hard work”

Spectrum
Gabriel, 11yrs
(Soham)

“I love Spectrum because of its fun day trips which are awesome. My favourite day out so far was The Natural History Museum because I love science and I can’t wait for Euro Disney! I love that I an be myself and people don’t judge me. The people at Spectrum are always friendly, kind and willing to help.”

Spectrum
Ashleigh
(Soham)

“A lovely afternoon thank you Safari Stu and thank you Spectrum! It was a great hit with the boys and me 👌 “

Spectrum
Justin
(Cambridge)

“Spectrum has a fantastic family to feel it and really understand the finer details. Their events are superb, often unique and cater really well for a wide ranging audience. They always deliver in both a hugely considerate and stunning way. Spectacular support.”

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Helen
(Folksworth)

“Really good events and the organisers are so helpful.”

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Sharon
Cambridge

“Spectrum is amazing at providing support for families with Autism. I have been to several events….shows, afternoon tea with Santa, Clip and climb with my two children. I have really valued these as I struggle (realistically will not go as a solo adult) to take my children to events such as these as I do not know how my son will respond. The events spectrum arrange are more autism-friendly so less likely to result in challenging behaviour and are also in such a supportive environment, so that if he struggles people have my back. My daughter really benefits from these as without them she would miss out on these experiences as it is almost impossible to juggle time to take her by herself. The events are also positive for their relationship as they have shared happy experiences, which helps to balance the times when my son struggles. The Spectrum team are truly amazing and deserve all the backing in the world.”

Spectrum
Heather
(Thetford)

“Thank you for giving my little ones a memorable time today! They absolutely loved handling all the exotic animals.”

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Irma & Jason
(Peterborough)

“We are so very happy with all your hard work, and the way you have took care of our every need and issue.”

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Amy
(Cambridge)

“Thanks to Spectrum, I’ve met some of my closest friends which I will always be hugely grateful for. Its wonderful to also see my son accepted for who he is and bloom because of it.”

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James
(St. Neots)

“I think it’s good Spectrum are able to facilitate outings that you wouldn’t usually be able to do with your child with additional needs.”

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Leah
(Sutton)

“Parents and children with SEND often feel extremely isolated, alone and excluded. I am proud to be a member of Spectrum Cambridge because they are parent led, passionate and focused about supporting SEND. They support the whole family of children with SEND, inclusion for all, by supporting children to be themselves without judgement which improves social development, well being and mental health. All the people involved in the charity are inspirational and dedicated. As a member of the charity I believe Spectrum offers support which is otherwise not available. It is so important for families to have access to the support spectrum offers. We have been given opportunities for inclusion in actives, trips and lots of new experiences which we would not have had access to. Since joining, my son has grown in confidence, improved his well-being and self-esteem all being supported by spectrum without judgement. Most importantly he’s made good friends. The support offered is exceptional and I have to say I would be lost without it. There is a real community spirit and everyone involved always goes above and beyond to help and to support each other on a personal level. Often parents and children with special education needs are isolated within their own community and receive little support. I believe that Spectrum Cambridge fills this gap which many families encounter. It is so important for children and parents to feel they have somewhere and someone to turn too when they need it. Also, in my experience, the best advice you can obtain is from people that have first hand experience. Everyone is supportive in this way. I believe that Spectrum really is the only place where families are included, supported, treated as equals and not judged in anyway.”

Spectrum
Oscar, 14yrs
(Cambourne)

“Spectrum are awesome. It is fun. I have an amazing time. I like doing the trips and days out with them.”

Lucy Mackey
Project Manager - MAX Card

“Max Card have partnered with Spectrum to provide opportunities for children with disabilities and special educational needs. We have a great working relationship with this charity who are able to assist us with the distribution of Max Cards across many locations in East Anglia and London. With the support of Spectrum we have increased our UK coverage significantly”.

Spectrum
Leah
(Bury St. Edmunds)

“Thanks again Justin and Amy for a brilliant day out the kids loved it” – you never fail at organising a fun filled day! 

Spectrum
Stephanie
(Cambridge)

“Spectrum organise a range of fun activities and it’s really encouraged us as a family to try some new things. We went to our first pantomime at Christmas and it was lots of fun, and we didn’t feel judged or worried as we might if we had tried to go independently.”

Spectrum
Richenda
(Soham)

“Thank you for a wonderful family day, yesterday. Loved every minute despite, the aching feet! Thank you once again for a fantastic outing!”

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Clare
(Waterbeach)

“The change it makes to my son’s confidence when attending Spectrum activities is astonishing. And this has a massively positive impact on us as a whole family. Spectrum are a wonderfully welcoming team who are unfazed and unfailingly supportive of all differing needs. A very special group indeed! “

Richard Finn
GM - Hilton Hotel Cambridge CC

“We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Spectrum and are looking forward to supporting the charity. At Hilton Hotels & Resorts, we’re dedicated to supporting local charities that play such a vital role in our community and our team at Hilton Cambridge City Centre is keen to raise awareness for this deserving cause.”

Spectrum
Sharon
(Downham Market)

“It’s nice to do things as a family amongst other families in the same situation without people staring etc if there are any meltdowns or upset with anything. Spectrum gives us this opportunity.”

Spectrum
Ellie, 11yrs
(Ely)

“Spectrum is fun, I really like it when we go to Clip n’ Climb. The zoo was great fun too!”

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Jon
(Cambridge)

“Thank you for such an awesome afternoon! We all had a blast! James was delighted with the outcome of the rumble!”

Spectrum
Irma
(Peterborough)

“Thank you so much for today, everything perfectly organised, we had lot of fun! 🤩 “

Oliver Scott
Actor & Theatre Director

“I’m lucky enough to have worked with Spectrum on a variety of events and projects and its clear that the team at Spectrum are so passionate and committed to deliver the best possible support and events, they truly believe in what they can achieve. It’s so important that the team at Spectrum continue to achieve greatness, as it’s so important for our young people.”

Spectrum
Richard
(London)

“Myself and my partner Louisa have a 10-year-old son, named Leo. Leo was diagnosed with autism ASD in July 2014 at the age of 4. Louisa has been part of many online ASD support groups, one in particular on Facebook. It was here that Louisa heard about the Spectrum Max Card. Louisa signed up for the Max Card, which in turn, allowed her to become a member of the Spectrum Facebook group. This July (2020), Spectrum emailed Louisa to ask if Leo would like to be chosen to be a tester for their online Mine Craft server, which allows children with ASD to play safely online with other children. Leo was chosen and has since made a friend playing online. Leo says that he has enjoyed this experience very much. Thanks to Spectrum, Leo was given a chance to be part of something big and has made friends in the process.”

Spectrum
Rhian
(Renhold)
“We had a great time as always!! Thank you for everything you all do. We really appreciate it!”
Spectrum
Leanne
(Letchworth)

“Before knowing about Spectrum, I didn’t really have a chance of taking my son out due to his needs but with Spectrum, I feel very relaxed taking my son to different activities Spectrum provides. It is a chance to meet other families in the similar situation and not feel judged. Spectrum is an amazing charity in what they do and always on hand to give support.”

Spectrum
Kathryn
(Cambourne)

“Thank you so much for a wonderful day out! We had a great time ❤️”

Terry Gauci
Actor, Sports MC & Entertainer

“I can’t speak highly enough of the team at Spectrum. They are enthusiastic, patient & genuinely loving people, who put everything into helping children who need that extra time and attention in their lives. The world’s a better place with Spectrum around.”

Spectrum
Karen
(Hardwick)

“Thank you so much for today, we all had a wonderful time this morning! Can’t wait for another session. The work you do is fabulous! x “

Spectrum
Jose
(Cambridge)

“Thank you again. You and all the people from Spectrum are just amazing!!!”

Spectrum
Laura
(Heringswell)

“Spectrum gives us the opportunity to gain new experiences as a family which would not usually be possible in an understanding and supportive environment.”

Spectrum
Joshua, 16yrs
(St. Neots)

“The pantomime was one of my favourite outings with Spectrum. Looking forward to the next one!”

Spectrum
Holly
Landbeach

“Spectrum has been such a positive force in our lives, they’ve provided us with wonderful opportunities to connect with other families and to take part in events that could otherwise be quite challenging. We had a great time at Angelsey Abbey Winter Lights, as well as Clip n Climb and we’re looking forward to the new Spectrum Play sessions. Thanks for all your hard work!”

Spectrum
Noah, 9yrs
(Cambourne)

“I love my Spectrum days out. Everyone is so friendly and no one looks at me differently or points at me. I feel accepted and always smile when I know it’s a Spectrum trip.”

Spectrum
Mandy
(Doddington)

“Thank you ever so much to everyone who was involved with the day out at Legoland. We had an amazing time from start to finish and it was so lovely to meet new families too. You have all done an amazing job!”

Spectrum
Jeremy
(Ely)

“I love the opportunity to let my children enjoy a unique event without social pressure. The day trips inspire creative thinking and are simply a delight every time. I am so happy Spectrum as an outlet for me and my family. My favourite event so far was Breakfast with Santa it was amazing and I am a believer once again!”

Spectrum
Mel
(Great Cambourne)

“Huge thank you to all of Spectrum Cambridge, for all the behind the scenes hard work, the dedication and drive of  Justin Heron and all the team. We have had the best year of activities topped off with Santa this morning!”

Spectrum
Amanda
(Ely)

“Spectrum has been a life line for our family, not only have we had some amazing experiences with the events but we have also met a very supportive team and hopefully some life long friends. We can not thank Spectrum and the team enough for all that they do.”

Spectrum
Vicki
(Newmarket)

“We are so lucky to be part of the ever growing Spectrum Family. Spectrum amaze us no end with the trips and opportunities organised for the children and their families. But for us, as a family with a child in a wheelchair and complex medical needs it’s the finer details that make such a difference. It’s talking to her not over her. It’s sitting in the front row at the panto so she can focus. It’s catching that moment on camera for us because we’ve run out of hands. It’s knowing they’re there if we need an extra pair of hands or listening ear.  Spectrum is about fun, ability and friendship.” 

Spectrum
Jason
(Peterborough)

“Thank you for all the outstanding and amazing help and information you have given us through the last few weeks!”

Gemma Bays
Senior Tutor

“Over the past two years, Ely College have been working with Spectrum Cambridge on a number of different events to encourage young people to help others and to support the fantastic work that the charity does within the local community.

The students at Ely College, and more specifically in Etheldreda House, have had the opportunity to enjoy regular visits from Spectrum Cambridge where they have been able to discuss information and learn of the activities they can get involved in throughout the year. This has been an excellent ongoing partnership that Etheldreda House strongly value.

Many of our students have attended Spectrum Cambridge events outside of school hours and always report their positive experience and the many skills they have been able to learn and develop.  The charity has always been present at events to support our students’ efforts in fundraising.  The communication with Spectrum Cambridge has always been professional, friendly and swift, making the organisation of activities stress-free.

I am extremely happy with the work that has been accomplished over the last two years and look forward to our continued relationship.”

Spectrum
Jane
(Ely)

“Thanks for another amazing event this morning and for everything you do. It really is so very much appreciated!”

Sammy Brooks
Sammy Magic Magic

“Spectrum are a joy to work with from start to finish. From the initial meeting right up to the event date and after. They go out of their way to make sure that everything is 100% ready and prepared for my visits. Their management of children and adults is second to none making it very easy for me to do my job whilst visiting them. It’s an honour and I enjoy every moment whenever working with Justin and the team.”

Spectrum
Kjersti
(Upper Cambourne)

“Just wanted to say how much we appreciate the opportunities we have had from Spectrum Cambridge, we never would have contemplated places like Legoland before, or Clip n’ Climb before, but it’s proved a success for us with Euan, he’s even holding his birthday party at Clip n’ Climb on 1st September, at his request!  He would have been frightened at the thought a year ago!”

Spectrum
Sam & James
(Bishops Stortford)

“We always have a fantastic time at Spectrum events. It’s lovely to support such a great Charity who provide so much to so many families.”

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Owen, 13yrs
(Downham Market)

“I like coming to watch the pantos and shows and really enjoy Nerf wars and wrestling.”  

Spectrum
Natasha
(Great Cambourne)

“I cannot thank you enough for your support. I received a letter saying they had received my DLA form today also! Take care and hopefully, we will meet again one day at a Spectrum event!”

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Josh, 12yrs
(Cambridge)

“I love it at Spectrum as I get to go to events with my friends and their families and I cannot wait for Harry Potter and Disney Paris!!! C’mon!!!!”

Spectrum
Asa
(Soham)

“We had such an amazing experience today with you all! Thank you so much for all that you do!!”

Lucy Bell
Actor

“The work that Spectrum do is great! I’ve had the pleasure of them bringing along families to watch many show which I have performed in! They are always a great audience and it’s amazing to see the children’s reactions after the show when we come to meet them! Such lovely people with great hearts which make this charity amazing in what they do!”

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Maria
(Bury St. Edmunds)

“I feel like I’ve made friends for life & also able to go on days out to places with my son without feeling watched & judged by others. I’ve been totally supported by those around me.”

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Louise
(Stow cum Quy)

“Our first session today, Jack loved it so did his brothers as you can tell by Callum’s face in the pictures. Thank you so much, will defiantly be attending more sessions xx “

Spectrum
Michelle
(Soham)

“Thank you for a fab outing today!”

Spectrum
Emily, 11yrs
(Waterbeach)

“I love how I can have fun with my brother without worrying about others. It has been great to see how he has become much braver, doing different things and that I have been able to do them with him. I have learned how to climb thanks to Spectrum and now want to learn how to do it as a sport. I love going to sessions at Clip and Climb and holding all of the animals with Safari Stu was amazing!”

Spectrum
Taiu, 9yrs
(Bury St. Edmunds)

“Spectrum is a good place for children who want to have fun, learning & making friends.”

Spectrum
Kjersti
(Cambridge)

“It can sometimes be quite isolating with a special needs child, so we are grateful to have recently found Spectrum. Everyone is so welcoming, and with the vast range of supported activities on offer, family days out are more affordable and there is plenty our 7 year old son is excited to take part in.  The Clip ‘n Climb sessions have been amazing, as he would not have had the confidence to try this in a normal setting.  We are also looking forward to trips to Legoland, Warwick Castle, and the Harry Potter Studios this year.”

Spectrum
Janeta
London

“Your provided support has been invaluable for our family”

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Jo
(Bury St Edmunds)

“I just wanted to say an enormous THANK YOU for all of your assistance with the DLA renewal form, it seemed to take me forever to plough through it, but your support, advice and patience over Zoom was fabulous.”

Spectrum
Stacey
(Witchford)

“Thanks for your support and your emails I really really do appreciate it massively!”

Spectrum
Vicky
(Ely)

Lovely day today at the 🐧zoo!!! 🐫 – Thank you Spectrum 🦓Cambridge 🐯

Spectrum
Rachel
(Ely)

“Thank you for organising a great evening; we had a fantastic time and enjoyed being part of such a lovely group!”

Spectrum
Natasha
(Crownhill)

“Just received my MAX card. Thank you so much 3 days turn around is amazing. Xx”

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Cristina
(Stevenage)

“Thank you for everything that you are doing for us!”

Spectrum
Amanda
(Ely)

“What a great morning at Breakfast with Santa! – Just wanted to take the opportunity to say a massive thank you to Justin & Alex for everything you do to make Spectrum what it is and another thank you to all the team and our members for making it all the more fun!”

Spectrum
Mandy
(Doddington)

“Thank you all ever so much for putting all these wonderful opportunities together for us all to enjoy, so much appreciated indeed!”

Spectrum
Eric, 14yrs
(Cambridge)

“Never thought I would try climbing but being able to do it with others like me was awesome, I’m going again!”

Spectrum
Imra
(Peterborough)

” BIG THANK YOU! 🙇🏻‍♀️. It was awesome, we enjoyed everything. The organisation and logistic was brilliant.😻 “

Richard Calvert-Summers
Director - Crucible Films

“This year I have had the absolute pleasure of working with Spectrum Cambridge and it gave me a very personal insight into how it’s run, why it’s run and in general it shone a light on the people who run it.  This Spectrum team stands out as truly special.  Not only are they absolutely professional and resolute in achieving their goals but their passion is unwavering.  This is evidenced by achievements to date and how positive planning is being developed to strive for their next targets.  The charity has typically the ideals and positive goals that exemplify many ‘good causes’ but the special drive within Spectrum is infectious.  They want to create an environment for people with autism not only to feel comfortable but to have fun and learn, all while raising awareness generally.  Spectrum Cambridge will clearly go to the ends of the earth to achieve these goals. I was honoured to work alongside this highly motivated team and found it incredibly refreshing to witness a charity that is so focused on catering for each individual who decides to jump on board.  It is my sincere wish and indeed expectation to see them prosper and subsequently help more and more people in the very near future.”

Spectrum
Stephanie
(Burwell)

” Thanks again for such a fabulous day out. We all really enjoyed it 😍 “

Spectrum
Jane
(Ely)

“Just wanted to say, thanks for the Max Card this morning… and the hand-written compliment slip – nice touch! ❤️ you guys and all that you do!”

Spectrum
Phoenix, 10yrs
(Soham)

“My favourite days out are the zoo trips and I’m really looking forward to Legoland!”

Spectrum
Laura
(Haverhill)

“Spectrum has been a god send, so lovely so take your children out and know there will be no one judging your child’s behaviour. Run by some lovely dedicated people, a great bunch of friendly people on the actual outings. Good variety of things to suit everyone.”

Spectrum
Imogen
(Ely)

“It was so lovely to meet you all today! Thank you Spectrum for a wonderful day!! “

Spectrum
Vicky
(Willingham)

“Fantastic afternoon! We loved it. Thank you so much. Xx”

Spectrum
Charlotte
Ely

“Spectrum has been an incredible lifeline for us. It has enabled our son to participate in events that he otherwise would have been too overwhelmed to do, including visiting the National Space Centre, seeing a pantomime, meeting Santa and strengthening his gross motor skills at Clip and Climb. As a family, it is great to join a group of people who all face similar challenges, and as parents, we have had the opportunity to meet others on a similar parenting journey purely as we have all been members of Spectrum. Thank you Spectrum!”

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Clare
(Cambridge)

“Thank you so much for this morning! The change it made just across one session with you was amazing!”

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Stephanie
(St. Neots)

“Spectrum makes so many family’s happy with what they do. The outings trips etc. are made possible with Spectrum!”

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Anita
(March)

“This is the first event we’ve gone on with you but I can’t thank you enough, all your staff on the coach were helpful and friendly x”

Jack Watson
Anglesey Abbey - National Trust

“Here at Anglesey Abbey (National Trust) we are very proud to work to work with Spectrum. The work they do is so valuable to our local community and the need for them doing the work they do is so great. At the National Trust we are all about sharing our special place’s forever and for everyone and working with Spectrum is another great way of helping us achieve exactly that.”

Spectrum
Fiona
(Soham)

“I feel that Spectrum is an invaluable source of support for my family and it’s without a doubt one of the best things our family has ever discovered! We have experienced some amazing day trips and events which we adore. I particularly enjoyed The Natural History museum and the adult Faulty Towers evening which was so much fun! I am really looking forward to our trip to Warwick Castle in a few months. Spectrum has truly changed our lives, it has allowed my son to feel positive about his disability and it has allowed us to find a support network of people with similar life situations. This charity is such a special and magical aspect of our lives.”

Spectrum
Linda
(Ely)

” Spectrum is a great support to us and we have been on fantastic days out with our friends at Spectrum who understand the difficulties we face daily. We always look forward to the events and outings that are organised by them.”

Spectrum
Gemma
(Soham)

“Spectrum is a great support for us as a family, without it  days out just wouldn’t happen for us. Being out with like minded parents is essential for us and we have made lots of friends though Spectrum. My daughter has made friends with children who have siblings on the Spectrum, which is great because they are just like her and they understand.”

Spectrum
Alex
(March)

“I have been a member and now volunteer with Spectrum and it is the most rewarding thing I have ever done. This is a close knit family of likeminded people with the sole purpose of making a difference and improving the lives of the members we support.”

Spectrum
Sophia, 9yrs
(Soham)

“I love going places with Spectrum because they are exciting and fun and they are places that I haven’t been to. The people at Spectrum are always kind and helpful.”

Spectrum
Lyn
(March)

“We had a fab time with people who understand and were so supportive. Which meant Lucy had a good time too! Big thanks!”

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Oscar, 6yrs
(Heringswell)

“I loved seeing Safari Stu, the tarantula was the best! The day was super!”

Spectrum
Michelle
(Ely)

“We have attended a number of Spectrum events, they have all been amazing and without the group and the support they provide, we would never feel able to access events like this with my son because of his additional needs . Because of the group we get to have a better family life. Spectrum thank you for everything you do!.”

Spectrum
Serrita
(Papworth Everard)

“My autistic child has poor and delayed motor skills so the Clip n’ Climb session is ideal for him to help develop his physical ability.  Spectrum organises this, so he can do this in a safe and supportive environment.  On top of that, from his point of view – it’s a lot of fun!”

Spectrum
Alison
(Cambridge)

“Just wanted to say a huge thank you Spectrum !!! Eric was nervous and excited to attend this morning’s Clip and Climb session. It was a huge success! and I just wanted to say how pleased we were to attend. It was fabulous seeing everyone enjoying themselves!”