Check out Vitalise. There are several special centres throughout the UK for disabled people and their carers for short breaks.
http://www.vitalise.org.uk/Home-Page.aspx
Why don't you check out the Mature students society at the University (I used to be a member - the people at the university are a friendly bunch). You're bound to meet people there. Or the bars in Wivenhoe are a good bet.