Week of events mark Learning Disability Week 2016

People with a learning disability and their families from Wirral have been invited to attend a number of FREE events organised by Wirral Mencap to mark Learning Disability Week 2016 (20–26 June).  The week is designed to help break down the barriers people with a learning disability can face when developing relationships. The events include a drop-in lunch, a ‘Crafternoon Tea’ and an open day event with neighbouring organisation ‘Happy Times Activities’, who deliver sensory, relaxation and yoga sessions.

The grand finale will be a ‘Picnic in the Park’ in the Walled Garden at Wallasey Central Park. The event takes place this Saturday (25^th June)  from 11:00 – 16:00 and is held in partnership with Options for Supported Living. This is a public event for anyone to attend.

At the event, local people will be able to enjoy some music, browse the stalls, take part in fun games and meet new people.  The organisers hope that the event will bring people together and raise awareness of the importance of friendship, relationships and community engagement.

These events are part of a whole host of activities being planned across the country for Learning Disability Week, which is organised annually by the charity Mencap.  This year’s aim of Learning Disability Week is to highlight the barriers people with a learning disability can face when making friendships and relationships – and what causes almost one in three people with a learning disability to spend less than one hour a day outside their homes on a Saturday.

Sharon Nicholson of Wirral Mencap who helped organise the event said:  “We want everyone from the local area to come along to this event.  It’s not just for people with a learning disability.  Friends, relationships and being involved in the community is important no matter who you are.”

For further information on the events being organised in your area contact Sharon Nicholson on 0151 6661829 and for more information on Learning Disability Week visit the website www.mencap.org.uk/learningdisabilityweek