A Day in the Life at Oak Lodge

Oak Lodge is a day centre and skills hub in High Wycombe for adults with learning disabilities and additional needs. Every day here is full of activities to build confidence, grow independence, connect with others, and most importantly have fun.

Whether someone joins us five days a week or just one, our goal is the same: to support them in living a fuller, more empowered life on their terms.

Here’s a look at what a typical day might look like at Oak Lodge.

A Warm Welcome and Gentle Start

Most of our clients start to arrive at the day centre between 9:00-10.00am, where they are met by the familiar faces of our support workers and a friendly, comforting environment. Some enjoy a cup of tea and a quiet chat to start their day, while others jump right into a morning puzzle or craft activity with their allocated member of staff to support them should they need it.

Life Skills and Learning Activities

Mornings often focus on building important everyday skills — from using money to learning time, problem-solving, and basic literacy or numeracy. We use accessible tools, visual aids, Makaton and interactive games that make learning engaging and achievable.

Community Access and Real-World Practice

One of the highlights in our day is heading out into the community, which we try and do as often as possible, whatever the weather. Whether it’s a walk into town to buy lunch, a bus ride to go to a coffee shop, a visit to the library or the park, or simply practise road safety, these trips give our clients a chance to apply their skills in everyday situations.

It’s empowering to make choices, handle money, speak with shop staff, and navigate public spaces with support when needed.

Lunch and Social Time

Back at Oak Lodge, many clients share lunch together in a relaxed and social setting. For some, it’s a packed lunch from home, for others, it’s the meal they bought while out. This time is about more than just eating - it’s about connection, conversation, and developing social skills in a natural way.

There’s always a staff member nearby for anyone who needs a little extra help or encouragement.

Activities and Hobbies: Swimming, Art, Games and More

Afternoons are all about creativity, movement, and choice. Some clients might head to a swimming session for a confidence boost and physical activity. Others enjoy arts and crafts, puzzles, board games, or working on a longer-term personal project.

These sessions are tailored to the interests and goals of each person. We believe that everyone should have the chance to try new things, explore hobbies, and feel proud of what they create and achieve.

Home Time

With smiles, waves, and sometimes a handmade craft in hand, our clients head home — relaxed, accomplished, and looking forward to their next visit.

Oak Lodge is more than a place to go during the day, it’s a community. It’s a place where adults with learning disabilities and additional needs are celebrated for who they are, supported in where they want to go, and empowered every step of the way to achieve their personal goals.

We’re proud to offer a space that balances structure and flexibility, care and independence, support and freedom.

Whatever you're looking for — whether that's building skills, making friends, or just having fun, supported time in a safe environment — you will find it at Oak Lodge.

Want to know more?

Get in touch to arrange a visit or speak to a member of our team. We’d love to welcome you to Oak Lodge.