RECENT Wokingham initiative Communities Vision is this week highlighting the work of a local charity that supports children and adults with learning disabilities and/or autism, from cradle to grave.
Working closely with families and carers, Promise Inclusion offers practical and emotional support, as well as opportunities for people to connect and be part of their community.
For families in crisis, where carers are managing social services, health implications, and at the same time caring for children with additional needs, simple tasks like getting food on the table, getting everyone dressed, or completing paperwork can become difficult, says the charity.
And a lack of trust in services and frequent staff changes within statutory services can leave families feeling isolated.
Promise Inclusion’s Family Liaison Team provides one-to-one practical and emotional support, helping the main carer to support their family.
By explaining what support is available and how to access it, it can allow people to live more independent and manageable lives.
Its coffee mornings, workshops, youth clubs, and social groups are opportunities for individuals and families to meet others in similar situations, and for many, these spaces are a first step towards feeling part of a community.
At the charity’s adult social groups, people with learning disabilities are able to build relationships over time and to grow in confidence; some have gone on to meet up outside of the group, and enjoy activities such as going out for a meal together.
And through partnerships with community groups, the council, health services, and businesses, people are encouraged to join in with community groups, taking part in yoga, dancing, music, and volunteering.
The charity’s Gateway life-skills programme also helps people to feel part of their community.
When he first attended, C was very shy, say organisers.
But over time, he gained confidence, and was eventually able to attend the charity’s AGM, where he read aloud and spoke with others.
C later gave a speech at his brother’s wedding; something that would not have been possible before.
One parent whose daughter started attending Acorn and Gateway groups, said: “You’ve really made a difference to our lives, thank you.”
Communities Vision is a collaboration between local councils, businesses, community groups, and residents.
It aims to create a thriving, sustainable, and inclusive community.
Its six core ambitions are: sustainability, access to services, economic prosperity, health and wellbeing, fair opportunities, and community cohesion.
By 2035, its aim is that Wokingham will be a leading example of a community that balances growth with environmental stewardship, supports its residents’ health and prosperity, and nurtures a sense of belonging and connectedness.
For information, visit: communitiesvision.co.uk and promiseinclusion.org
