29th Apr 2024
On 26th April, Abingdon & Witney College hosted the first ever 'Together For Better Futures: Building Connections to Support Adults with Learning Disabilities' event.
Lee Humber, the College's Adults with Learning Differences Coordinator, emphasised the significance of the event: "In our local community, support for individuals with learning differences typically extends only until the age of 25. Beyond that, there are fragmented programmes lacking a cohesive approach. Consequently, many older individuals with learning disabilities may fall through the cracks without adequate support. Abingdon & Witney College is committed to addressing this pressing issue within the broader nationwide crisis in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) provisions. To foster collaboration and innovation, we have organised this event to bring together some of the leading service providers in the sector to see what we can achieve by joining forces."
The event was attended by many local organisations that help adults with learning differences in the community. It provided an opportunity to discuss the importance of education and resources in this ever-growing area and to help find solutions to improve people's everyday lives.
This free event, which was open to adults with learning disabilities, their parents and carers, and any agency working with adults with learning disabilities in Oxfordshire, offered a brilliant opportunity to network and discuss county-wide provision.
The day included various workshops and taster sessions, allowing young people to try out activities such as football training with Oxford United in the Community and DJing with My Life My Choice.
There were also discussions around conference themes and specialist talks from guest speakers, including Autism Doctor Dr Lilia T. Bakiyeva, Yellow Submarine Charity, MacIntyre, Soundabout, Thames Valley Police, and many more organisations.
Oxford United in the Community's Social Inclusion Lead Mark Thomas and Development Centre Manager Alex Blane discussed how their disability football programme in partnership with the College is creating new opportunities and connections for people in Oxfordshire: "We enjoyed sharing insights into how football and the Oxford United Football Club badge can positively impact people of all ages and backgrounds."
Abingdon & Witney College would like to extend our thanks to all our guest speakers and exhibitors and to all who participated and made the event such a success.
