Today, Midland Mencap’s CEO Dave Rogers and Ashleigh Jones joined Kath Stanczyszyn on BBC Radio WM to discuss the Government’s proposed changes to welfare benefits, particularly concerning the Work Capability Assessment and Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
Dave highlighted the significant local impact these cuts could have in Birmingham and across the West Midlands, stating, “it’s broadly acknowledged that, living with a disability adds about £1000 a month to your general living costs any reduction in welfare benefits is going to have a really severe impact, on some of our most vulnerable citizens”
Ashleigh shared her personal experience of living with Cerebral Palsy and Autism, reflecting on the anxiety caused by the recent news: “I feel really lucky in the sense that I am able to work, obviously I’m really well supported within my place of work to be able to carry out my daily job, essentially. But, you know, even last night I genuinely couldn’t sleep on the basis of how much potentially this, this new PIP reform essentially is going to impact me financially, even though I am able to work.”
Watch and listen to their full interview here:
Credit BBC Sounds, Kath Stanczyszyn, Radio WM
Listen to the full show on BBC Sounds here.
Read Mencap’s response to the Government plans to make changes to benefits.
For the past three years, I’ve had the pleasure of supporting Janet, a wonderful individual with a passion for musicals. We’ve shared many memorable experiences, but none quite like our recent adventure. Janet was thrilled to attend “Hairspray” the musical, and this time, we decided to make it even more special by inviting her friend Helen to join us. Helen eagerly accepted our invitation, and the night turned into a magical experience.
For the first time, I witnessed both Janet and Helen dancing and singing together, their faces alight with joy. It was heartwarming to see them so happy, We were overjoyed to be part of such a special moment. Their laughter and excitement were contagious, and it reaffirmed our commitment to ensuring they have many more fun activities to look forward to.
Next on our agenda is “Elf the Musical”, and both Janet and Helen can hardly wait. We are excited to continue creating these joyful memories and spreading happiness through the magic of musicals.
Learn more about the Right Support in Birmingham
Credit: Thank you to Myrielle and Julie (Personal Assistants, Midland Mencap) for their work and sharing this story.
Andrew, a citizen of a Midland Mencap property, has experienced a remarkable transformation with the support of the Community Wellbeing Service. For years, Andrew, who is naturally shy, preferred the solitude of his home, immersing himself in computer games and TV. This led to significant social isolation.
However, over the past year, dedicated support staff have worked tirelessly to boost Andrew’s confidence and encourage him to step out of his comfort zone. Their efforts have paid off spectacularly. Andrew now enjoys spending time outside his home, engaging in activities with friends, and even going out for food and drinks—something he never would have considered before.
Andrew’s newfound confidence is also reflected in his appearance. He takes pride in regular haircuts and beard trims, which have further bolstered his self-esteem. His commitment to his health has seen him independently attending the gym, greatly improving his overall wellbeing.
One of the most exciting developments is Andrew’s progress with bass guitar lessons, guided by his lead worker. His dedication to practice has led to significant improvement, and he now enjoys playing outside of support sessions.
Additionally, Andrew benefits from the volunteer service, where a befriender helps him explore new places and activities every fortnight. This has opened up a world of new experiences for him.
Where Andrew once avoided speaking to people and making eye contact, he now confidently chats with shopkeepers and café staff, and even orders his own food and drinks.
Andrew’s journey is a testament to the power of dedicated support and the incredible impact it can have on an individual’s life. His story is one of growth, confidence, and newfound independence, and it continues to inspire everyone around him.
Learn More about the Learning Disability Wellbeing Service
Credit: Thank you to Tim (Personal Assistant) supporting with this story.
In today’s digital world, online scams are more common than ever. From phishing emails to fake online stores, cybercriminals use various tactics to trick people into giving away their personal information.
On Tuesday, 11th February, we marked #SaferInternetDay, a global initiative dedicated to promoting online safety. This year’s theme focused on recognising and avoiding scamsan essential skill for anyone who spends time online.
Learning to Stay Safe Online
At the Digital Workshop Group at Weoley Castle Community Centre, we explored different types of scams, including:
Phishing – Fraudulent emails or messages designed to steal your personal details.
Online Shopping Scams – Fake websites or sellers that trick buyers into paying for non-existent goods.
Impersonation Scams – Criminals pretending to be someone you trust, like a bank representative or a government official.
Romance Scams – Scammers build fake relationships to manipulate victims into sending money.
Money Muling – Unknowingly helping criminals move stolen money by transferring funds.
How We Improved Our Scam Awareness
Through interactive quizzes from the UK Safer Internet Centre, our group tested their knowledge, learned how to spot scams, and discovered ways to stay safe online. We also discussed the importance of reporting anything suspicious to prevent others from becoming victims.
By the end of the session, our group felt more confident navigating the digital world, equipped with the skills to protect themselves and others from online fraud.
How You Can Stay Safe Online
Want to improve your online security? Here are a few tips:
Think Before You Click – Be cautious of unexpected links or attachments in emails.
Verify the Source – Check if a website or seller is legitimate before making a purchase.
Use Strong Passwords – Create unique passwords for different accounts.
Stay Alert – If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
Report Suspicious Activity – If you suspect a scam, report it to the appropriate authorities.
Final Thoughts
Scams can happen to anyone, but by staying informed and cautious, we can all play a part in making the internet a safer place.
Did you know about these scams? Have you ever encountered one? Share your experience in the comments and help spread awareness!
For more online safety resources, visit the UK Safer Internet Centre website. Let’s work together to stay safe online!
Our parkride Cycling with Confidence sessions at Longford Park, Coventry, have been a fantastic way for people with learning disabilities to gain independence, enjoy the outdoors, and build confidence cycling.
With accessible bikes, a supportive atmosphere created by the team, and plenty of fresh air, these sessions are all about having fun while learning new skills.
Building Skills & Confidence
Over the past few weeks, we’ve seen incredible progress from participants like Simon and Bridget, who started with different levels of experience but both grew in confidence and ability.
Simon was already familiar with cycling but needed support to improve his endurance and control. In just three sessions, he went from cycling with assistance to riding independently, doubling his distance each time and exploring more of the park!
Bridget was hesitant at first and needed encouragement, but with patience and the right support, she learned to pedal confidently on a tandem bike. By the third session, she had doubled her distance and embraced the experience!
Why These Sessions Matter
These sessions are inclusive and accessible, allowing everyone to participate using adaptive bikes, regardless of ability.
They also help build independence, giving participants a sense of control and confidence in their cycling skills.
It is more than just riding a bike, these sessions are fun and social, creating opportunities to make new friends, enjoy the fresh air, and celebrate personal achievements in a supportive environment.
Sign Up for Our Next Course!
Our next Cycling with Confidence course starts soon and runs over six weeks at Longford Park, Coventry.
Choose from one of three 50-minute sessions each week:
Dates: Wednesday 26th February, 5th, 12th, 19th, 26th March & 2nd April
Times: 11:00 AM – 11:50 AM, 12:00 PM – 12:50 PM, 1:00 PM – 1:50 PM
Location: Longford Park, Windmill Rd, Coventry, CV6 7BB
Cost: FREE – Pre-booking is required!
Want to get involved?
Call: 0121 442 2944
Email: parkride@midlandmencap.org.uk
At Midland Mencap, we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to develop skills, gain confidence, and work towards greater independence.
That’s why our PURE service, in partnership with ReCognition Circular CIC, is offering a hands-on repair course designed to give individuals with learning disabilities and autism a unique learning experience.
Learning Through Practical Experience
Many traditional training courses rely on reading and writing, which can be a barrier for some people. The Professional Recognition Course removes these barriers by focusing on practical skills.
Over seven weeks, participants learn how to repair laptops and computer base units, working in a structured environment that builds both technical expertise and self-confidence.
Recently, our learners have been putting their new skills to the test. They started by assessing donated laptops, determining whether they could be repaired. They cleaned out dust and debris, replaced thermal paste, and identified the parts needed for upgrades.
This process teaches them about troubleshooting, problem-solving, and attention to detail and essential skills that can help them progress towards employment and independence.
Why This Matters
Each year, millions of electronic devices, including laptops and mobile phones, are discarded in the UK. Many of these items still have life left in them, and with the right repairs, they can be given a second chance. Through this course, participants not only learn valuable repair skills but also contribute to a more sustainable way of thinking about technology.
As part of their training, students have also taken on the challenge of repairing mobile phones. This requires even more precision, working with tiny screws and delicate connectors.
It’s a hands-on way to learn, and it highlights just how many devices could be saved from ending up in landfill with a little care and expertise.
How You Can Help
For this programme to continue, ReCognition Circular CIC need more laptops and mobile phones for students like our to work on.
If your business is upgrading its technology, consider donating your old devices to ReCognition Circular CIC. They are ISO27001 and ISO14001 certified, meaning they can securely handle data destruction while ensuring these devices are put to good use.
Together, we can support individuals to gain new skills, build confidence, and create a more sustainable future.
Want to join in future PURE training courses?
Contact Midland Mencaps PURE team on:
Email: pure@midlandmencap.org.uk
Call: 0121 442 2944
The Families Together at Christmas concert has always been a highlight of the festive season for unpaid family carers.
Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, this cherished event offers a much-needed opportunity for carers to relax, connect, and enjoy a magical morning of music and community. Held at the Jennifer Blackwell Performance Space in the Birmingham Symphony Hall, this year’s concert was nothing short of spectacular.
A Decade of Festive Tradition
For the past ten years, the Families Together at Christmas concert has provided unpaid carers and their families with a chance to pause and celebrate.
It’s a time to take a break from daily responsibilities and immerse themselves in the joy of the holiday season. This year’s milestone event was packed with incredible performances and unforgettable moments, making it a standout experience for carers and their loved ones.
Stunning Performances That Captivated the Audience
The concert featured an array of talented performers who brought energy and warmth to the stage:
Midland Mencap Citizen Choir, led by the wonderful Henry Liggins from The Curious Project, delivered a powerful and moving performance that celebrated inclusivity and talent.
The gifted Casey Bailey delighted the audience by creating a unique festive poem live, capturing the magic of the moment with his words.
The Tea and Jam Project, Workplace Voices Choir, and the lively Heavy Beat Brass Band brought infectious energy, ensuring the hall was filled with festive cheer.
And, of course, a surprise appearance from Santa Claus added a touch of Christmas magic that delighted children and adults alike.
A Huge Thank You to Our Supporters
This incredible event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of our partners and team. We extend our gratitude to Chris Proctor (he/him) , Paul Jones and the amazing team at B:Music for their dedication and effort in making this celebration a success. A special mention goes to Clare, whose commitment to signing the entire show ensured it was inclusive and accessible to all attendees.
Why Events Like This Matter
Unpaid carers are the backbone of our community, providing essential support to loved ones. Events like Families Together at Christmas offer a chance to pause and reflect on the importance of their work while also celebrating the joy of the season. These moments of togetherness remind us of the power of shared experiences to bring people closer and show carers that they are not alone.
Join Us Next Year!
If you missed this year’s Families Together at Christmas concert, don’t worry—we’ll be back next year with more festive magic!
Be sure to mark your calendars and join us for another unforgettable celebration.
Want to get involved with Unpaid carer activities in Birmingham?
Call: 0121 442 2944
Email: Families@midlandmencap.org.uk
Despite a light drizzle, over a hundred determined runners, joggers, walkers, and wheelers gathered in Sutton Park to take on Midland Mencap’s Sutton Park Challenge, and what a day it was!
The energy was high from the start, with the exciting 5k and 10k races kicking off at 10am, followed by the family-friendly 1k at 11:30am. Each participant, from seasoned racers to first-time walkers, showed amazing determination and heart throughout the day.
A standout moment of the day was seeing Elisha and Billy, riding their accessible bikes with parkride, joining the 5k and 10k participants for the first time. Their enthusiasm and grit perfectly captured the spirit of inclusivity and community that the Sutton Park Challenge represents.
We want to extend a huge thank you to everyone who took part. Whether you were chasing a personal best, enjoying a scenic walk, or taking on the hills with friends, your involvement helps make a real difference for people with learning disabilities and their families across the West Midlands. Together, we are building a future where everyone is valued, included, and empowered.
Equally, a special thank you goes to our incredible volunteer marshals. Whether you were guiding runners, cheering them on, assisting in the car park or race village, or contributing your time and skills in other ways, you played an essential role in making this day a success. Your dedication and support kept everything running smoothly, and we hope you’re proud of the impact you made. We simply couldn’t have done it without you!
Be sure to check out your race times and browse through the amazing photos from the event. These memories will stay with us, and so will the positive impact you’ve made!
Missed this year’s event or already excited for the next one?
You won’t have to wait long! We’ll be announcing the date for next year’s Sutton Park Challenge in January. Whether you run, jog, walk, or wheel, we’ve got a spot for you, and we can’t wait to welcome you again!
Thank you again for your incredible support. We are already looking forward to seeing you next year!
As we reflect on the month of June, we at Midland Mencap are filled with pride and gratitude for the incredible events and milestones we’ve shared with our community.
From honouring our dedicated volunteers to supporting unpaid Carers and celebrating individuals with learning disabilities.
June has been a testament to the power of inclusion, support, and community spirit. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable journey we’ve been on this past month.
National Volunteers Week (June 3-9): Honouring Our Unsung Heroes
We began the month by shining a spotlight on our volunteers. National Volunteers Week gave us the perfect opportunity to express our heartfelt appreciation for these selfless individuals who contribute their time, energy, and skills to make a difference in our community.
Our celebrations kicked off with two special events:
1. Weoley Castle Community Centre Celebration (June 5):
This vibrant gathering brought together volunteers, staff, and community members for a morning of recognition and fun. Attendees shared stories and enjoyed refreshments while reflecting on the impact of volunteerism.
2. Walsall Disability Hub Event (June 6):
Our Walsall branch hosted a similarly joyous occasion at the Walsall Disability Hub, highlighting the unique contributions of volunteers in supporting individuals with disabilities in the local area.
Throughout the week, we also leveraged the power of social media to amplify our volunteers’ voices. We shared a series of volunteer experience videos, offering a glimpse into the diverse ways our volunteers contribute and the personal growth they experience through their service. These heartwarming stories not only celebrated our current volunteers but also inspired others to get involved.
You can watch them here:
Carers Week (June 10-16): Supporting Those Who Care
Following our volunteer celebrations, we shifted our focus to another group of unsung heroes – unpaid Carers with partners Forward Carers.
Recognizing the often-overlooked challenges faced by those who provide unpaid care to family members or friends, we organised a series of events designed to offer support, respite, and recognition.
Our Carers Week activities included:
Throughout the week, we hosted health and wellbeing workshops and sessions focused on self-care, stress management, and overall wellbeing for carers. These events, led by health professionals and wellness experts, provided practical tools and strategies for carers to maintain their own health while caring for others.
One of the highlights of the week was our day trip to ThinkTank Birmingham, the city’s award-winning science museum. This outing offered carers a chance to relax, learn, and enjoy a day out, free from their usual responsibilities. The interactive exhibits and immersive experiences provided a much-needed break and sparked joy and curiosity among our attendees.
To round off the week, we hosted a special Carers lunch at our Happy Bean Café. This event not only provided a delicious meal but also offered a valuable opportunity for carers to connect with one another, share experiences, and build a support network. The warm, welcoming atmosphere of our new cafe created the perfect setting for fostering these important connections.
Learning Disability Week (June 17-23): Celebrating Achievements and Raising Awareness
The final week of June was dedicated to Learning Disability Week, a time to celebrate the achievements of individuals with learning disabilities and raise awareness about the challenges they face. This week was packed with events that showcased the talents, resilience, and potential of the individuals we support.
Our Learning Disability Week events included:
Walsall Celebrations at Walsall Disability Hub
We kicked off the week with a lively celebration at our Walsall Disability Hub. The event featured art exhibitions, performances, and interactive activities, all designed to highlight the diverse talents of individuals with learning disabilities. Local community leaders and partners joined us in recognising the contributions of people with learning disabilities to our society.
PURE Graduation Event (June 18)
One of the most inspiring moments of the week was the PURE graduation event held at the Library of Birmingham alongside Birmingham Rathbone. This ceremony celebrated the achievements of individuals who have completed our PURE BAES course program, which focuses on developing job skills, confidence, and independence.
We welcomed Birmingham’s Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress to the event on Tuesday where they presented certificates to students.
It was a great event celebrating the efforts of everyone in the PURE project that supports people with complex needs towards education, training and employment. Both staff and students had a joyful time reflection and celebrating and were able to get involved in some activities after the ceremony.
Nuffield Birmingham Central joined us to and hosted a small stretch and workout session and pakride were along for the ride with taster sessions on their fleet of accessible bikes.
Learning Disability Week Celebrations and Happy Bean Cafe Opening (June 20)
The pinnacle of our Learning Disability Week celebrations coincided with the grand opening of our Happy Bean Cafe. This dual celebration was a testament to our commitment to creating inclusive spaces for individuals with learning disabilities.
Our brand-new café is open to the public Monday – Friday from 8:30am – 2:30pm during term time and has an exciting new menu with drinks, cakes and hot food. Visit us to join a community, enjoy art and have a relaxing time in both an indoor and outdoor environment.
Throughout the day, we hosted a variety of activities to celebrate Learning Disability Week, including art workshops, music performances, and informational sessions about learning disabilities. The event drew a diverse crowd, from long-time supporters to curious community members, all coming together to celebrate diversity and inclusion.
We had a Hate Crime with Jo, from West Midlands Police, which provided our community with more information on staying safe and how to deal with hate crime. Free resources were available for everyone.
It was a successful day, and we hope to see more of our community at our community hub.
A Month of Impact and Inspiration
As we look back on June, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible community that surrounds and supports Midland Mencap. From our dedicated volunteers and tireless unpaid Carers to the inspiring individuals with learning disabilities who challenge perceptions every day, each person plays a vital role in creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
These events have not only celebrated achievements but have also raised awareness, created new connections, and reinforced our commitment to supporting individuals with learning disabilities and their families. The success of our June activities serves as a powerful reminder of what we can accomplish when we come together with a shared vision of inclusivity and empowerment.
As we move forward, we carry with us the energy and inspiration from this remarkable month. We remain committed to creating opportunities, challenging perceptions, and building a community where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive and reach their full potential.
Thank you to everyone who participated in, supported, or contributed to our June events. Your involvement makes a real difference, and together, we are creating a more inclusive and compassionate world, one day at a time.
Stay connected with Midland Mencap for more exciting events, initiatives, and opportunities to get involved. The journey towards full inclusion and equality continues, and we invite you to be a part of it.
For more information on Midland Mencap’s Communtiy Services:
Call: 0121 442 2944 or
Email: Communityhub@midlandmencap.org.uk
Hi, I am Tom. Since January 2024, I have been volunteering at Midland Mencap’s parkride sessions, primarily at Woodgate Valley and Cannon Hill Park. These sessions offer a wonderful opportunity to engage with the community and support individuals with learning disabilities through cycling activities. Volunteering here has been a rewarding experience that combines my passion for cycling with meaningful community service.
The Role of a parkride Volunteer
At parkride, the social aspect is just as important as the physical activity. I enjoy getting to know the citizens, figuring out which bikes they prefer, and helping them get ready for their rides. Whether it is a casual cruise or a more energetic ride, I’m there to support and motivate them. This involves adjusting the bikes to suit everyone’s needs, providing encouragement, and sometimes accompanying them on their rides to ensure they feel safe and confident. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see the joy and sense of achievement on their faces as they ride.
Why I Chose Midland Mencap
After being made unemployed, I found myself with a lot of free time. My previous job as a bike courier had me searching for cycling-related volunteering opportunities. I discovered Midland Mencap’s parkride volunteer listing on Google, and it felt like the perfect way to spend my time meaningfully. I was looking for something that would keep me active and allow me to use my skills in a positive way. The idea of helping people enjoy cycling, especially those who might not otherwise have the opportunity, was very appealing to me.
Personal Rewards from Volunteering
Volunteering at parkride is incredibly fun and fulfilling. Meeting regular participants and watching their progress is immensely satisfying. For me, it’s also about building confidence, knowing that I can make a positive impact. Being outdoors, on my bike, aligns perfectly with my lifestyle since I don’t own a car and rely on cycling for transportation. Every session feels like an adventure, and I love the sense of community that has developed among the volunteers and participants. It’s a great way to stay fit and healthy while contributing to a good cause.
Memorable Moments
One of my favourite experiences was with Mathew, a participant at Woodgate. Over time, I’ve seen him become more verbal and confident. Soon, we’ll be able to go on longer rides together, like the Bournville Walkway, after my training. This journey with Mathew has been incredibly inspiring, showing me the importance of patience and consistent support. Another memorable moment was at Cannon Hill, where I helped a strong cyclist transition from a smaller tricycle to a regular bike. Seeing him reach his potential was incredibly rewarding. We went for a longer, faster ride, and the excitement and pride he felt were palpable. These moments remind me why I volunteer and the impact we can have on each other’s lives.
Making a Difference in the Community
My presence at busy sessions helps ensure that everyone gets a chance to ride without waiting too long. It’s not just about the bike rides but facilitating an enjoyable and fulfilling experience for the participants. By being there to assist, I can help streamline the process of getting participants on bikes, reducing wait times, and increasing the overall enjoyment of the session. This means that more people can participate and benefit from the activities. It’s gratifying to know that my efforts contribute to making the sessions run smoothly and effectively.
Learning and Growth
Since I started volunteering, I’ve gained significant confidence in being responsible for others. Engaging with people with learning disabilities has been a valuable skill I’ve developed, and it’s taught me a lot about communication and patience. These experiences are not only personally rewarding but also applicable to potential future career paths in education and caregiving. I’ve learned about safeguarding practices and how to handle various situations that might arise during the sessions. This has given me a greater sense of responsibility and the confidence to take on leadership roles within the volunteer team.
Advice for Aspiring Volunteers
To anyone considering volunteering at Midland Mencap, I say just do it! It’s a lot of fun, and as you keep coming back, you’ll see the tangible impact you’re making. The relationships you build with the citizens make it all worthwhile. You’ll find yourself returning not just for the activity but to catch up with friends and witness their growth and confidence. Volunteering here has been an incredible journey, and I look forward to continuing to make a difference, one bike ride at a time. The sense of community and the positive atmosphere make it a truly enriching experience that I highly recommend to anyone looking to volunteer.
Want to learn more about volunteering at Midland Mencap? Click here