LEARNING disability charity, ENABLE Scotland, and sister charity, Mencap, have announced the launch of Inspire Me, a new project which aims to support 20,000 young people who have a learning disability across the UK.
Says a spokesperson: “Inspire Me is a project set up by ENABLE Scotland and Mencap, funded by The Co-operative Charity of the Year for young people who have a learning disability, aged 16-25.
“Young people who have a learning disability are twice as likely not to be engaged in education, employment or training as those without.
“The project provides activities and training that will give young people who have a learning disability the chance to learn new skills and to build their confidence.
“Workshops will be delivered in key areas that include: managing money, preparation for the world of work, confidence, motivation, volunteering, goal setting and community citizenship.
“Young people will also have the opportunity to set up community impact projects, such as renovating a public space or facility, to benefit their community and improve their skills.
“There are 1.5 million people who have a learning disability in the UK and one of their biggest challenges is discrimination. Inspire Me will work with local communities to change negative attitudes towards young people who have a learning disability.
“Support will also be available for parents, families and carers with information events on issues including supported living, benefits and leisure activities.”
ENABLE Scotland will initially deliver Inspire Me in Glasgow, Ayrshire, West Dumbartonshire and Angus.
As part of their commitment to inspiring young people, The Co-operative Group are hoping to raise over £3.7 million to fund the Inspire Me project.
If you would like to find out more about Inspire Me or refer a young person, visit www.enable.org.uk or call ENABLE Direct on 0300 0200 101.
ENDS
Notes to Editors
ENABLE Scotland
- ENABLE Scotland is one of Scotland’s leading charities for children and adults who have learning disabilities and their families and carers.
- ENABLE Scotland campaigns for people who have learning disabilities to live full and independent lives.
- ENABLE Scotland is a member-led organisation formed in 1954 by a group of families. Local ENABLE branches are made up of volunteers – mostly people who have a learning disability, their families and carers.
- 1.5 million people in the UK have a learning disability. The most well known learning disability is Down’s Syndrome, although there are many others.
- ENABLE Scotland provides services, information and advice to allow people who have a learning disability to live, work and take part in their communities – living the life they want.
The Co-operative Group
The Co-operative Group is the UK’s largest mutual business, owned not by private shareholders but by almost six million consumers.
It is recognised as the UK’s fifth-biggest food retailer, the leading convenience store operator and a major financial services provider, operating both The Co-operative Bank and The Co-operative Insurance.
Among its other businesses are the number one funeral services provider and Britain’s largest farming operation.
As well as having clear financial and operational objectives, the Group has also set out its social and sustainability goals in its groundbreaking Ethical Plan, which specifies almost 50 commitments in these areas.
The Group operates over 5,000 retail trading outlets, employs more than 110,000 people and has an annual turnover of £13.7bn.
Further information is available at www.co-operative.coop.
MEDIA RELEASE posted by ENABLE Scotland. You too can post media releases (aka press releases) on allmediascotland.com. For more information, email here.
Contact: Nikki Slowey
Phone: 07921657185
Email: nikki.slowey@enable.org.uk
Website: http://www.enable.org.uk
