Celebrate Learning Disability Week, 17 to 23 June, by valuing and recognising people with learning disabilities within the community.
The week is about people showing what life is like if you have a learning disability. ‘Do you see me?’ is the theme for this year and is about people with a learning disability being seen, heard, valued, and celebrated for the things they bring to society.
As well as celebrating the things that people with a learning disability do, the week will also challenge the barriers they face that stop them doing the things they want to do.
Ealing Mencap will be sharing digital challenges through the week on social media channels, Facebook and X, under the hashtag #LDWeekEalingMencap
There will also be a ‘Stand With Us’ event on 19 June outside the front of Ealing Town Hall, at 1pm to 1.30pm. Everyone is welcome to come along and stand in support of people with learning disabilities.
Council takeover
As a contribution to this year’s Learning Disability Week, Ealing Council’s Learning Disabilities Partnership Board has co-produced a “Takeover Morning” at the council’s offices Perceval House on Wednesday 19 June.
This fits with the challenge on that day of ’Will you work with me?’. Working with Ealing Mencap customers, the takeover morning is an opportunity for people with learning disabilities to shadow council officers, observe their daily routines, attend meetings and gain insights into the practical aspects of their role. They will also find out about specific tasks and responsibilities associated with the jobs they are shadowing, gaining valuable experience and insight and providing input along the way. They will most definitely be seen and heard across the council.
Garden party
The council’s Short Breaks Respite Service, working in partnership with the NHS and the council’s social care services are also celebrating with a garden party on Tuesday 18 June from 11am to 2pm.
The garden at the centre in Hanwell was given an uplift and new look last year and brings a new dimension to the stay of residents, adding to activities available and improving their sense of wellbeing.
It’s an ideal spot for a garden party having been paved over, to make it safer for residents and wheelchair users, with raised flowerbeds to make gardening more accessible, a wildflower meadow section, a swing, and a trampoline for everyone – including wheelchair users.
Carers will have the opportunity at the garden party to meet professionals from different services and learn about what is available for extra support. The centre is also a point for young people transitioning from children to adult services, so families are encouraged to come along and meet each other and see the facilities available.
Different types of learning disability
There are different types of learning disability, which can be mild, moderate, severe or profound, but in all cases it is lifelong.
It can be difficult to diagnose a mild learning disability as the individual will often mix well with others and will be able to cope with most everyday tasks. However, they may need support in other areas of their life such as filling out forms.
People with a severe learning disability or profound and multiple learning disability (PMLD), will need more care and support with areas such as mobility, personal care and communication. People with a moderate need may also require support in these areas, but not definitely.
Every person is an individual with their own needs, but with the right support those with a learning disability can lead fulfilling lives in the way they choose.
Find out more about Learning Disability Week 2024 on the Ealing Mencap website.
