Free Family Artis and Crafts Event in Birkenhead

"I Cried When I Left" Grandmother Shares Why Liverpool Disability Exhibition Means So Much to Families

CA free exhibition helping families of children and young people with disabilities and additional needs is returning to Liverpool this December, with more than 100 exhibitors offering equipment, advice and support.

Kidz to Adultz North will take place at Exhibition Centre Liverpool on:- Thursday, 3 December 2026, as the event celebrates its 25th Anniversary year.

Visitors will have the opportunity to try out equipment, meet suppliers and speak directly with professionals, while therapists, teachers and social workers can attend free CPD-accredited seminars.

But for families who have spent years searching for the right support, the exhibition can mean much more than discovering new products.

Barbara, a grandmother who has attended Kidz exhibitions for around 18 years, still remembers the overwhelming emotions she experienced when her granddaughter was born with a rare genetic condition.

At the time, information about the condition was limited, leaving her unsure where to turn for help.

Barbara said:- "It was a whirlwind of emotions and where to start looking for help and advice for my daughter and granddaughter. As her grandma, I felt so helpless. As the condition was so rare there was very little information around at the time."

A chance conversation with another parent eventually led Barbara to her 1st Kidz exhibition, an experience she has never forgotten.

Barbara continued:- "On leaving my 1st visit, I cried because for the 1st time I saw all the equipment and advice that was available. The Kidz Team were extremely helpful and friendly. They sent me off to different stands that may be able to help or advise. I left with 2 bags of leaflets and contacts, and a few pens!"

Over the years, Barbara has purchased bathing, seating and bed equipment at the exhibitions. Her daughter also attended and, following advice from the Motability stand, ordered a wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV).

For Barbara, 1 of the most valuable parts of attending has been meeting other families who understand the challenges of living with disabilities.

Barbara said:- "It's great to meet new people, either at the talks, at the stands or over lunch. You also meet families, parents, carers with similar experiences, who have an understanding of disabilities and a wealth of knowledge, which leaves you feeling less isolated."

She continues to return to the exhibitions to discover new products and keep up with developments in technology.

Since the 1st exhibition 25 years ago, Kidz to Adultz has grown into a UK wide series of events, bringing equipment, advice and support together in 1 place.

Technology is also changing the options available to families, with artificial intelligence increasingly being used in everyday life through voice-controlled systems, smart home technology, communication aids and tools designed to support greater independence.

Keeping up with these developments can be challenging, which is why organisers say being able to see and try equipment in person is so important.

Carmel Hourigan, Senior Manager at Kidz to Adultz, said:- "Technology is moving faster than ever, and families tell us they want to see it, try it and ask questions in person. Kidz to Adultz is a place to do that, with people who understand the everyday challenges families face. After 25 years, our aim is still the same:- nobody should have to work out what's available alone."

The exhibition is free to attend and welcomes children and young people with disabilities and additional needs, their families and those who support them.

For more information or to register, visit this link.

What are your thoughts on this news topic? Please do email our Newsroom with your thoughts on this issue and any other issues you might have by sending them to:- News24@SouthportReporter.Com, alternatively you send us a message on:- Mastodon, Facebook, or X. We love to hear your views....