I’ve been working as the Accessible Information Officer in the Community Learning Disability Team for almost two years now. Making documents easily readable for our service users is rewarding in itself, however the absolute best part of this role is the time I get to spend with our service users. There’s something genuinely uplifting about being invited into their moments, especially when I’m asked to take their photos. The joy on their faces, the pride they show, and the way they’re so willing and able to express their individuality always makes my heart happy.

Capturing moments like these with Bailey and Ella feels like more than just part of my job; it’s a reminder of why this work matters and how lucky I am to be part of their world.  They truly make a difference and like so many of us, love to strike a pose!

We also spoke to our Speech and Language Therapy students about their experience on placement:

As Speech and Language Therapy students on placement with The Community Learning Disability Team, we have been committed to really understanding our service users on placement.

We have been spending 1:1 time with adults with learning disabilities at Cromwell Road Day Centre through Intensive Interaction. This is a person-led approach to communication, that helps connect on a deep level. Intensive Interaction involves mirroring movements and echoing vocalisations, validating all communication as intentional and meaningful. The benefits of Intensive Interaction are to help people develop early communication skills, like taking-turns, shared attention, and connection in a safe, enjoyable, environment.

After a few short weeks we have seen positive results from Intensive Interaction, in terms of emotional regulation, trust and self-esteem. We feel we have established long lasting connections with the service users. We hope the members of the groups at the day centre have enjoyed the sessions as much as we have!