Events to Celebrate Learning Disability Week

A host of activities are taking place next week across South Tyneside as the Council and its partners come together to celebrate Learning Disability Week.

This year marks the tenth anniversary that the Council has marked the campaign which is led by national charity Mencap.

Councillor Ruth Berkley, Lead Member for Adults, Health and Independence, said: "Learning Disability Week is all about smashing misconceptions and celebrating the incredible things that people with a learning disability can achieve.

"It is also about raising awareness among the wider community so that people have a better understanding of what it is like to have a learning disability."

Following engagement and consultation led by people with learning disabilities, last year the Council launched a strategy, which focused on their priorities.

Councillor Berkley added: "People with a learning disability have the right to live their lives as they want. This means being part of the community and getting respect. It means that people have the chance to do the things they want and that people with learning disabilities are treated with dignity.

"This week is about making sure we all come together to really hear what is important to people, recognise their choices and support them to achieve their ambitions.

In partnership with the NHS and community and voluntary organisations, South Tyneside Council is holding a series of events throughout the week which runs from 19 to 25 June.

Some of the highlights of the week include a triathlon at Haven Point on Tuesday 20 June, discos at Jarrow Hall for both children and over 13s and live music in the amphitheatre on Friday 23 June. Members of Holder House will be offering workshops  on how to make up hanging baskets and a wall planter out of timber. They will be at Jarrow Focus Library on Tuesday, Hebburn Library on Thursday, Cleadon Park Library on Friday and The Word on Sunday.

Councillor Paul Dean, Lead Member for the Voluntary Sector, Partnerships and Equalities, added: "It is fantastic that such an extensive and varied programme of events has been organised to mark this week. This is no small part to the outstanding partnerships we have in South Tyneside.

"From live performances, drop-ins and information sessions to arts and crafts and sports, there is so much on offer, largely because of the strength of our third sector."

For more information about the events and activities during the week visit http://www.southtyneside.gov.uk/LDWeek