During last week’s Learning Disability Week campaign, it was great to see so many organisations get behind the ‘Do You See Me?’ campaign and raise awareness of the enormous talent and skills across the UK.
A small group of the people we support showed us how they challenge barriers that people with a learning disability face every day and asked: ‘Do You See Me?’ as part of the campaign which was all about being seen, heard and valued in society.
Kofi, Amber, Dan, Rob and Sarah took over Alternative Futures Group’s social media channels for the week to showcase some of their amazing abilities, from acting, to gardening, swimming, art and singing.
We are immensely proud to play a part in championing and empowering the people we support to flourish as their true, authentic selves and welcomed the Mencap campaign to raise awareness on the importance of campaigning for change in the sector.
I was delighted to have the opportunity to speak on BBC Radio Merseyside about the importance of raising public awareness and how social care isn’t just about the elderly – it’s also about the 1.5 million people with a learning disability that seem to get forgotten.
Alternative Futures Group was set up to empower people to live full and independent lives, to give them an alternative future in their own homes.
We need to understand the value that people with a learning disability add to our society and challenge discrimination. We want people to be curious, and not be scared to interact with people who have a learning disability. Don’t be afraid to ask someone with a learning disability how they are feeling, what is important to them – then listen and make change.
There is a critical need for a more balanced conversation around social care within the political agenda and I will continue to advocate for increased funding to support the sector.
Kofi, Rob, Sarah, Amber, Dan and Chris are six incredible people that are living their lives to the full – and we are proud to support almost 900 people like them across the Northwest.
You can read more about them and watch them do what they do best below:
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