Reflections by Becky King, Director of Props
This week invites us to reflect on many things. How can we elevate the voices of some of the most vulnerable and disadvantaged people in our society? How can we ensure that their skills and talents are recognised? How can we provide opportunities to recognise these skills and talents? What does support need to look like? How are we ensuring that it is person centred and impactful?
Do you see me is not about seeing the label or the assumptions, it is about seeing the person. The values, the strengths, contributions and the ambitions. It about considering the potential. The potential to support individuals to thrive given the right systems of support.
For many people with a learning disability, being truly “seen” is still a challenge. Too many individuals continue to face barriers that limit opportunity, independence and inclusion.
Statistics continue to demonstrate that there is a clear gap between aspiration and opportunity. Just c.5% of adults with a learning disability are in full time employment, yet a recent Mencap study highlights at least 80% of individuals want to have a job. Alongside this, individuals with learning disabilities continue to experience poorer health outcomes, with significantly shorter life expectancy.
Behind every statistic is a real person.
A person with:
- Goals and ambitions
- Talents and skills
- A sense of humour
- A desire to belong, contribute and live a full life
Systems focus too much on what people can’t do, rather than what they can.
When we shift that mindset really powerful things can happen.
People begin to thrive.
The SEND reforms and Preparing for Adulthood agenda are clear. Success is not just about education. It is about real-life outcomes such as relationships, confidence, health and meaningful participation in society.
At Props, this is at the heart of everything we do. We support adults with learning difficulties to build the skills, confidence and opportunities they need to live full and meaningful lives. That looks different for every person. For some people it is about developing pathways into work or volunteering. For others it’s about building independence, learning new life skills or simply having the confidence to try something new.
But across it all, the focus is the same:
Support our trainees to feel a sense of purpose, belonging and achievement
Learning disabilities week is not just about raising awareness.
It is about taking action, challenging barriers, changing perceptions and creating opportunities.
Because when we truly see people, we unlock potential.
💜 Different minds
💜 Different journeys
💜 Equal worth
Our trainees have skills, talents and things they love to do. We play an important role in helping these be recognised, developed and shared, so everyone has the opportunity to contribute and feel part of a community.
If you want to know more about the work of Props, visit their website here: www.propsbristol.org or contact Beck directly on
Support the incredible Bristol to Bordeaux cycle ride this July, see here: Donate to Props – Props Bristol
Find out more about Learning Disability Week here: Learning Disability Week | Mencap
See a video about the work of Props: https://youtu.be/p8PbZokA-78
