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:

Meet Kofi

Kofi, 28, is a model, actor and musician. Kofi also has a learning disability.

Kofi is based in one of our independent flat schemes in Lancaster, commissioned by Lancashire County Council.

His talents and achievements include:

  • Professional modelling for a range of brands including Primark, Moss Bros., ELLE and many more
  • Acting with appearances on Hollyoaks
  • He is a keen musician and enjoys singing, playing guitar and jamming on the sax, harmonica or drums

Meet Amber

Amber, 28, is a creator, digital artist and gardener. Amber also is also autistic.

Amber is based in one of our supported living properties commissioned by Lancashire County Council.

She is incredibly creative and makes her own digital art pieces and beautiful intricate models, as well as tending to a beautiful garden.

Meet Dan

Dan, 18, is a football fanatic, sports lover, fundraiser. Dan also has a learning disability.

Dan recently just moved in to his first home as an adult in one of our supported living properties commissioned by Cheshire East Council.

Dan is loving his new home and getting out and about in his local community. He loves football and is an active member of his local disability football club, recently taking part in a 24-hour disability football fundraising event.

Meet Sarah

Sarah, 37, is a boxer, swimmer and life of the party. Sarah also has a learning disability, cerebral palsy and dysphagia.

Sarah lives in one of our supported living properties commissioned by St Helens Council. Her life now looks completely different thanks to passing an assessment for an advanced eye gaze communication tool, which has enabled her to build full sentences for the first time.

Sarah enjoys a wide range of activities and social events and is living her best life.

Meet Rob

Meet Rob.

Rob hosts his own radio show, loves music and has an amazing sense of humour. Rob also has a learning disability.

Rob is a talented presenter and has a great sense of humour. His dream is to one day become a sports commentator!

Meet Chris

Chris, 64, is an incredible singer, joker and inspiration. Chris was in a serious car crash at aged 25, and has a brain injury, sight loss and speech impediment.

Chris lives in one of our supported living properties commissioned by Knowsley Council and is supported by his team to live a full and active life. Watch him visiting BBC Radio Merseyside to share his inspiring story.

Interested in working with us?

We’re proud to work closely with a range of commissioners, housing partners, developers other stakeholders to deliver bespoke, person-centred services that meet the needs of the people we support, their families and the communities they live in. Get in touch to find out more.

Interested in joining our team?

We’re recruiting for Support Workers! We have flexible opportunities available immediately including part-time, full-time, permanent or casual working across the Northwest. See our current vacancies.

Sign up to our mailing list for more info, news and updates from us and the people we support.