Community Connecting Blog: Building Better Lives for People with Learning Disabilities and/or Autism
When ECL announced the launch of its Inclusive Employment programme in March 2020, I was overjoyed. As the mum of a 17-year-old with autism and learning disabilities at the time, the idea of a dedicated scheme to support people like my son into paid work was incredibly exciting. The programme has been a tremendous success, helping 494 people into employment so far.
However, it soon became clear that Inclusive Employment couldn’t be the solution for everyone. For individuals like my son Lynden, who has moderate to severe learning disabilities, sustaining paid work isn’t realistic. While I’m a huge advocate for the scheme and celebrate every success story, I yearned for an initiative that could offer meaningful support to those who aren’t able to work but still deserve a fulfilling life.
For young adults with moderate to severe learning disabilities, the opportunities available after leaving full-time education can feel like falling off a cliff. The choices are often limited: move into employment, attend a day centre, or stay at home.
Day centres provide a safe and supportive environment, particularly for those with more complex needs, offering opportunities to learn, socialise, and grow. However, some individuals may aspire to experiences beyond a setting exclusively catering to people with additional needs.
As a mum, I find myself in this ‘middle ground’ of individuals who may not be ready for, or capable of, paid employment but could flourish with opportunities to participate more actively within their communities.
My son is non-verbal, has no interest in friendships with peers, and struggles with tasks that require prolonged concentration. Yet, he’s sharp, motivated when the activity is right, and physically strong. I can’t shake the belief that he has the potential to achieve more. With the right support, he could take on a role within the community that enables him to contribute, even in small ways, while gaining a vital sense of satisfaction and self-worth.
Like so many parents of children with learning disabilities, I’m haunted by the question of what will happen when I’m no longer here to protect and advocate for him. If he could develop a local network of people who ‘get him,’ it would provide immense reassurance.
In 2023, ECL and Essex County Council launched ‘Community Connecting’, a pilot programme designed to help individuals find opportunities within their communities that align with their interests while reducing dependency on social services.
The benefits for individuals are profound:
- Greater independence and reduced isolation.
- Improved skills, confidence, and self-esteem.
- Better physical and mental health.
- A sense of purpose, structure, and routine.
- An extended support network.
The support provided is carefully tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. For some, this might involve volunteering to build valuable employment skills and experience, with an ECL Community Connector offering dedicated guidance to help them identify the right opportunity and confidently settle into their role. For these individuals, Community Connecting can provide a vital bridge to paid employment.
For others, it could mean engaging in activities such as hobbies, sports, or education to reduce isolation and foster a genuine sense of belonging. Actively participating in the community can significantly boost confidence and provide a strong sense of purpose.
Take Melanie, for example. Before joining the programme, she spent most of her time at home watching old films. With the help of her Community Connector, she now volunteers at a café, confidently serves customers, and travels independently. Her next step is likely paid employment, with support from the Inclusive Employment team.
Then there’s Elaine. Following her mum’s move into a care home, Elaine became housebound, which worried her family. With support, she now volunteers at a charity shop, giving her life purpose and boosting her confidence. Her father feels reassured about her future, and Elaine takes pride in her appearance once more.
Darren’s move to supported living was a challenge, leaving him unsettled in his new neighbourhood. Thanks to the programme, he’s now attending a community hub, participating in a dominoes group, IT sessions, and a dance class. These activities have helped him adjust and find happiness in his new surroundings.
Community Connecting doesn’t just benefit individuals - it also has a positive impact on society. Integrating people with learning disabilities and/or autism into communities raises awareness, improves understanding, and fosters inclusivity.
While progress has been made, as a mum, I know there’s still work to be done. There are days when staying home feels easier than enduring stares, but supporting our loved ones to be visible and included is key to educating society.
The programme also has financial benefits. Reducing dependency on funded services and improving health outcomes lessens pressure on health and social care. Volunteers contribute to other causes, and for some, it creates a pathway to paid employment and tax contributions.
Essex County Council and ECL have recognised these benefits, demonstrating its potential through this pilot. I’m hopeful the scheme will expand across Essex and inspire other local authorities to follow suit.
Programmes like Community Connecting give me hope - not just for my son but for the many families facing similar challenges. With the right support, everyone deserves the chance to live a meaningful and fulfilling life as part of their community.
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