A leading provider of unique day provision that dynamically challenges the stereotype of traditional day services
About us
Brightside offers bespoke provision for those with a wide range of additional needs, across our unique services. This range of services allows us to differentiate the support and education that is offered, to ensure we cater appropriately for individual needs. The diverse offering is far removed from the traditional day service model and instead adopts many of the strategies utilised within education, with the freedom from the strictures of the curriculum to provide meaningful and useful life skills whilst having fun.
Within our team we have motivated, experienced professionals who share our uncompromising commitment to person centred, quality support for individuals in order to promote a fulfilled and happy life. Achieving the maximum independence for the person while having the most fun possible is our aim.
Our areas of expertise
Every individual is different, with unique strengths, aspirations and needs and this is reflected in our holistic approach to support. We work with young adults across a wide range of additional needs, including
- Autistic spectrum disorder
- Attention deficit (hyperactivity) disorder
- Sensory needs
- Speech and language needs
- Mental health needs
- Behaviour that challenges
- Mild to profound learning disabilities
While our services are designed to be inclusive and flexible, our current facilities and staffing expertise mean we are unable to provide appropriate support for individuals with significant physical needs. All young adults attending Brightside must therefore be ambulant and weight-bearing to ensure their safety and wellbeing within our environment.
Our mission
Meet the team
At Brightside, our people are our greatest strength. Every member of our team brings unique skills, experience and passion to the work we do. We see this not just as a job, but as a vocation, and we celebrate and reward those who share that same sense of purpose.
Amy Jane Farrar
Director
Amy Jane, a social worker and psychotherapist, is passionate about challenging the stereotype of traditional services and introducing a more progressive, person-focused approach. Together with lifelong friend Cheryl, whose professional experience perfectly complemented her own, they founded Brightside Adult Services in April 2016, built on shared values and a vision for doing things differently.
Email Amy Jane
Cheryl Wade
Director
Cheryl grew up with her younger brother who has complex additional needs, and the lack of high quality local services fuelled her passion to found Brightside youth services in 2011. A SEN teacher, inclusion consultant and regional Makaton trainer, Cheryl is an advocate of progressive practices which incorporate education at every opportunity.
Email Cheryl
Susan Parsons
Operations Manager
Susan joined Brightside in 2019, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and expertise from the medical industry. She leads on finance and the day to day operations, keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.
Email Susan
Luke Bailey
Social Care Manager
Luke has a family member with a Learning Disability and a background working with children and adults with additional needs through sports coaching, holidays schemes and as a personal assistant. Luke qualified as a social worker in 2017 and came to Brightside in 2023 seeking to promote the rights, safety and life opportunities for people with additional needs.
Email Luke
Kerry Rankin
Risk and Compliance Manager
Kerry started out in the 1990’s working for a tour operator dealing with accidents, illnesses, injuries and fatalities within resort and any related legal claims. Kerry went on to become a lecturer at a local further education college teaching travel and tourism from Levels 1 to Foundation Degree. Kerry joined Brightside in September 2024 where she continues to focus on health, safety and compliance.
Email Kerry
Julie Beattie
Service Manager
Julie begun her career in early years gaining experience and knowledge along the way to complete her degree in Early Years Practice and qualifying as a Trainer to deliver the Special Educational Needs and Disability qualification. She has worked for the council as an inclusion consultant for the past 11 years, advocating for the rights of children in early years who have a special educational need or disability.
Email JulieStaff testimonials
Gallery
See what we’ve been up to, out and about with Brightside
Safeguarding
At Brightside, all of our services are covered by CCTV, for the protection of our staff, our group members and the peace of mind of families. If you are concerned about a vulnerable adult or child, contact onecall on 01670 536400. In an emergency, contact 999.
View our Safeguarding Policy
View our Complaints Policy
Further information about safeguarding can be found at www.northumberland.gov.uk/Care/Support/Safeguarding.aspx
