This area will become the go-to place for families of the people we directly support.
We are committed to supporting people to make their own informed and independent choices in their lives. We also hugely value the input and support of their families, who are an integral part of our community.
Over the coming months we will add to this page:
- updates for families and invitations to events
- advice and information on supporting someone who is in our services
- monthly copies of Minstead Enquirer, the newspaper written by people we support
You can join our free monthly online carer community for family carers of people with learning disabilities and/or autism – a welcoming space to share experiences, gain support, and build helpful connections.
We also run free online evening Carers Share and Shape sessions, giving you another chance to connect, be heard, and help shape future support.
We are also open to hearing from families on what information would benefit you, please do get in touch.
Email us
The Minstead Enquirer
The Minstead Enquirer was started in 2023 by a group of people we support in New Forest Day Opportunities.
The Minstead Enquirer is written, planned and collated by talented journalists with learning disabilities. A truly pioneering publication with articles about subjects that the News Team are passionate about.
After publishing 10 internal editions, the News Team have now published two special editions in autumn 2024 and spring 2025, printed by the hugely supportive Hobbs the Printers.
Another step in showing that if people with learning disabilities are given a chance they can achieve wonderful things.
Read the Spring Edition
Key contacts
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Learning disability admissions
General enquiries and admissions:
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Portsmouth Day Opportunities
95 Warren Avenue
Milton,
Southsea,
PO4 8PY -
Portsmouth Supported Living
95 Warren Avenue
Milton,
Southsea,
PO4 8PYMatthew Parrant (Registered Manager):
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New Forest Day Opportunities
New Forest Day Opportunities
Minstead Lodge
Seaman’s Lane
SO43 7FT02380 814134
Google Maps -
New Forest Supported Living
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New Forest Residential
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Poole Supported Living
Parkstone United Reformed Church
16 Commercial Road,
Poole,
BH14 0JWMelina Buxton (Service Manager):
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Online carer community
Do you care for someone with a learning disability and/or autism, either at college or later in life?
Join us for free monthly chats from Wednesday 11 June 12 – 1.30pm
During these sessions, you’ll:
- Share insights and guidance with others with lived experience
- Develop links that will help you navigate your caring responsibilities
Please register for your free space below.
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Carers Share and Shape
If you would benefit from sharing your experiences of being a carer and learning from other carers, our Carers Share and Shape session is for you.
These sessions are informal evening online sessions, created specifically for family carers and will be facilitated by Alice, as part of a research partnership between Minstead Trust and the University of Essex.
Join us for free monthly online chats on the last Thursday of the month between 6.30-7.30pm.
During these sessions, you’ll:
- Have space to chat and share experiences with other carers
- Have the opportunity to contribute to Alice’s research if you wish to
Please register for your free space below.
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Lily & Lime