A POPULAR cocktail bar in York has partnered with The Snappy Trust (Special Needs Activities and Play Provision for York) to make club nights accessible for all.

Jalou York’s general manager Dan Acock was inspired to reach out to the trust following feedback from a customer, who loved the bar’s bright lights and R&B music.

Dan wanted to host an exclusive event for young adults with disabilities and special needs who don’t get the opportunity to visit bars and clubs, so that they could enjoy this experience within a safe and inclusive environment.

He worked with the trust to plan an event for its senior group members which was a huge success, seeing them hit the dancefloor, drink cocktails and have a great time. Dan is now planning a second event and wants to hear from other groups who would like to attend.

Dan said: “Partnering with The Snappy Trust was the most heart-warming and rewarding party I’ve ever thrown. From the moment the group stepped into Jalou they were on the dancefloor and it was amazing to witness the genuine joy and happiness on their faces. The response from their team has been incredible, with so much appreciation shown. I’m looking forward to our next event and building new relationships within the York community.”

Anne Stamp, service manager at The Snappy Trust, added: “Our young people had a wonderful evening at Jalou. The staff and management couldn’t do enough for us. Dan even came out to visit our young people before the event to get to know them. Thanks to Jalou’s brilliant team for a fantastic evening which we are proud to have been a part of.”

The Snappy Trust, based on Lowther Street in York, is a registered charity supporting children and young people with wide-ranging disabilities, from across the York area. The trust runs a programme of activities and events to empower its children and young people by developing confidence, independence and social skills but mostly, giving them the opportunity to enjoy new experiences, have fun and make friends.

Jalou York, on Micklegate, is hosting its next event for young adults with disabilities and special needs on April 25 from 6.30pm until 9pm. Entry is free but a wristband is required which can be collected from The Snappy Trust office on Lowther Street. Organisations interested in partnering with Jalou are encouraged to get in touch with Dan.