People First Dorset
Social Inclusion
We'll use the money to help run Friendship Club events in and around Dorchester for people with learning disabilities.
About this cause
People First Dorset is a local charity run by people with learning disabilities, which include those with autism, Down’s syndrome and other conditions. We set up People First Dorset in 2004 so that everyone is assured of their independence, their ability to choose, and their inclusion in everyday community life. This is called ‘self advocacy’, or speaking up and leading change. The foundation of self advocacy is a strong connection to each other and the communities that we live in. We therefore provide a social network for around 500 of our members across Dorset, called the Friendship Club. From these foundations our self advocacy is channelled through local Speak Up groups and a Dorset-wide Forum, which works closely with the Dorset Learning Disability Partnership Board.
How this cause brings people in the community together
It's easy to take everyday events for granted: meeting friends for supper at the pub, catching up over coffee in a cafe, or enjoying a walk in the park. Lots of people with learning disabilities told us that they would love to do these things as well, but it was too difficult for them. They rarely went out and if they did, often felt unwelcome. Our project helps the community be more inclusive.