This week (16th – 22nd June) marks Learning Disability Week, a national campaign led by Mencap that shines a light on the experiences, achievements, and rights of people with learning disabilities. The theme for 2025 is "Do You See Me?", a powerful call to recognise and value the contributions of people with a learning disability in our communities.
Right here in Somerset, one programme that truly embodies this spirit is Fit For Work.
Run in Taunton, Bridgwater, Frome and Yeovil, Fit For Work is a 10-week course designed to support adults with disabilities on their journey toward employment. Through weekly two-hour sessions, participants build physical fitness, develop teamwork and communication skills, and grow in confidence, all while having fun and making social connections.
Coaches lead a variety of accessible sports and strength and conditioning activities, helping participants improve stamina, functional movement and wellbeing. But the benefits go far beyond the physical. This programme is about building self-belief, independence and a sense of achievement.
The response has been overwhelmingly positive. One participant shared:
"I was shy at first, but my confidence was boosted each week. I really liked the course and felt I developed my teamwork. I felt I was getting fitter too."
Another reflected:
"I felt really welcomed and supported on the course, which helped me to reduce my anxiety and increased my confidence."
At the end of the programme, a Celebration Event brings everyone together to recognise achievements and explore next steps, whether that's volunteering, further training, or employment opportunities.
New Video shared featuring participants from The Fit For Work programme! To show support and further showcase Learning Disability Week, we have shared an inspiring video sharing how participants have been impacted by Fit For Work, what they are proud of that others may not see, and inspirational messages they would like to share with others! "It's not about who is better or faster, just try your best!"
As we celebrate Learning Disability Week, we're proud to spotlight the resilience, energy, and talent of everyone who takes part in Fit For Work. This is what inclusion looks like in action: being seen, heard, and valued.
Discover more about Learning Disability Week at: mencap.org.uk/learningdisabilityweek
#LearningDisabilityWeek2025 #DoYouSeeMe #FitForWorkSomerset