Mencap’s Sidekick programme to help combat social exclusion of people with intellectual disabilities

From September 2015 to November 2015, Inclusion Europe UK member Mencap surveyed over 300 persons with intellectual disabilities between 18 and 35 year old in order to understand the current state of social inclusion. The results were shocking.

Mencap's Sidekick programme to help combat social exclusion of people with intellectual disabilities
 etr Mencap did a survey to find out if people with intellectual
disabilities were happy with their social lives.They found that lots of people would like to leave the house
more but they were scared to go out in case they were
bullied or laughed at.

Some people said they often did not have anyone to spend time with.

This is not fair.

To improve persons with intellectual disabilities’ quality of life
Mencap has introduced a Sidekick programme.

A Sidekick is someone who volunteers to spend time with
people with intellectual disabilities.

For example, going with them to the cinema, park or a pub.

Having a friend to go out with will make people feel safer and
more comfortable.

This is important because when people are able to participate
in social activities they are generally happier.

You can encourage people to sign up to the Sidekick programme here.

 

From September 2015 to November 2015, Inclusion Europe UK member Mencap surveyed over 300 persons with intellectual disabilities between 18 and 35 year old in order to understand the current state of social inclusion. The results were shocking.

They revealed that almost 1 in 3 people with intellectual disabilities are stuck indoors on a Saturday, unable to take part in leisure activities. Their responses expose the isolating effect fears of being bullied can have; many admitted they were worried about being called names (33.7%), being laughed at (25.7%) or having to ask a member of the public for help (19.8%). Over a third of the participants said these concerns have prevented them leaving the house in the last month.

A survey of the general public reinforced this alarming discover. About 11% claimed they see someone with an intellectual disability engaging in social activities once a month, whilst 9% stated they “never” witness this. This situation is concerning, especially since there are over 1.4 million persons with an intellectual disability in the UK.

It is clear this lifestyle is not a choice as 49.3% stated they would like to spend more time outside their house, 44.6% do not think they spend enough time with friends and 17.8% feel alone and cut off from other people.

Mencap believes this increasing isolation is a result of public attitudes, cuts to social care and a distressingly low rate (6%) of people with an intellectual disability in paid employment. Many are prevented from engaging because the public underestimate their capabilities, limiting their social life and “protecting” them from trying new things. This is discrimination. Everyone deserves autonomy to make their own decisions.

Current public responses of people with intellectual disabilities include awkwardness and mockery, making a task as simple as going to their local supermarket require a great deal of courage. Mencap is fighting to redefine misguided perceptions and build a more inclusive society. These findings have prompted Mencap to encourage the public to engage with people with intellectual disabilities and not feel uncomfortable; breaking down negative perceptions and supporting people with intellectual disabilities to have an active social life.

In direct response to 23.8% stating that they often feel like they don’t have anyone to spend time with, Mencap has introduced the Sidekick programme. Sidekicks accompany persons with intellectual disabilities on fun outings or pop round for a cup of tea, replacing boredom with friendship and support.

If you live in the United Kingdom and are dedicated to helping break down the barriers that are currently denying individuals the right to a social life, then you can sign up here to be a Sidekick with Mencap.

The possibilities of potential activities are varied and have a significant impact on someone’s quality of life, helping to release them from being trapped indoors.

Our work brings the voice of people with intellectual disabilities and their families where decisions about their future are made.

This has always been incredibly important. It is even more so with the Covid pandemic drastic impact on their rights and lives.

Being visible and vocal on issues directly affecting millions of people requires your support. 

Become Inclusion Europe supporter and help us keep doing our work.

 

 

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