THE THEME of this year’s national Learning Disability Week was, Do You See Me?
Designed to put the emphasis on people with learning disabilities (LD) being seen, heard and valued, it begs the question: ‘Did you see them?
Members of CLASP certainly gave plenty of opportunities to catch sight of them as they took part in a week of fun events and activities in the borough.
The charity is a self advocacy group for people with learning disabilities in the Wokingham borough.
User led, it is run by its members, employing people with learning disabilities, and offering them voluntary opportunities.
“We had an amazing week,” said independence support worker Michele Munro.
“Our choir sang out in Peach Place, where they were both seen and heard – and where kind passers by donated almost £100.”
CLASP CEO Debs Morrison, and trustee of the group Phil were also heard when they chatted with Vernon Harwood on his BBC Radio Berkshire morning show.
They talked about the group, and the challenges of having a learning disability, as well as the positive contribution that members of CLASP make in the borough.
Members of the group were on the NHS Health Bus in Bracknell, with a team ready to offer information and signposting.
And at Squires Wokingham, which has made CLASP their charity of the year, there were sales of potted plants prepared by members of the group’s Gardening Club.
The group’s regular Coffee Shop was busy, too, with a craft session to make mini me’s reminding people that although members have LD in common, they are much more than this.
Midweek there was a mini Olympics during CLASP’s regular Happy and Healthy session at Wokingham Leisure Centre,.
“It was such a lot of fun, and all attendees received a lovely certificate and medal for attending,” said Michele.
Member Susanna added: “I had an awesome morning with Happy and Healthy group at Carnival Sports Centre in Wokingham.”
On Thursday the group enjoyed an Active Session at Woky Bikes 4 All, where they enjoyed getting some exercise in the sunshine, chatting, walking and cycling.
And the week culminated in a game of ten pins at Superbowl, followed by a communal picnic at Elms Field, where the group was visited by Wokingham town council mayor, Cllr Rob Comber.
CLASP Member Ashleigh said: “It really was the best picnic that I’ve ever been to, especially chatting to all of the staff.”
CLASP Member Dean, said: “I’m so proud of everyone at CLASP and I love being part of a great group with great staff”.
The group welcomes new member enquiries.
For information, visit: www.claspwokingham.org, call: 07780 749453 or 0118 228 1801, or email: admin@claspwokingham.org
