Children Achieving Lifelong Movement
Through our Funded Partner Programme, Barnwood Trust supports organisations across Gloucestershire that are helping to build opportunities for disabled people and people with mental health conditions to thrive. One of these organisations is Children Achieving Lifelong Movement (CALM), which helps children with long-term movement challenges to gain strength, confidence, and joy through play and physical activity.
We spoke to Andrea at CALM about the impact of Barnwood’s funding and heard the story of Adam*, a young boy whose journey with CALM shows the difference consistent, specialist support can make.
Adam is an active young boy who enjoys playing with his twin sister and friends. He was born with Williams Syndrome, a genetic condition that affects movement and development. Despite these challenges, Adam has always shown a strong interest in staying active.
At 4 years old, Adam experienced a stroke linked to his condition. He spent 6 months in hospital, supported by specialist professionals through physical and emotional recovery.
After returning home, his progress began to decline. Therapy was reduced to once a fortnight and was no longer delivered by specialists in children’s rehabilitation. His family noticed his confidence and abilities begin to fade.
Adam’s grandma learnt about Children Achieving Lifelong Movement (CALM) through a friend. CALM is a place where children with long-term movement challenges are supported to improve physical ability and confidence through playful rehabilitation. Adam’s mum reached out to CALM, which marked the start of a new phase in his recovery.
Adam began attending CALM twice a week. Sessions are tailored to each child’s needs and delivered in a welcoming gym environment. During the sessions, Adam takes part in fun exercises, games, and stretches designed to improve strength, coordination, and balance.
Six months after joining CALM, Adam took part in his school sports day for the first time. His mum shared:
“He did so well. I was ridiculously emotional but so proud of how far he has come – a HUGE thank you to CALM for helping him achieve this. He absolutely wouldn’t be where he is today without you.“
Adam has now taken part in his 3rd sports days. Where before he spent time sitting on the sidelines, he now competes in the egg and spoon race and enjoys time with his friends. His increased confidence has had a positive impact on his school life, friendships, and time with family.
Using Barnwood’s funding, CALM aims to continue providing regular physical therapy sessions to children throughout 2026, helping more children improve their physical skills and confidence to reclaim their childhood.
*Name has been changed to protect privacy.
