Mental Health Awareness Day offers an opportunity to pause, listen and consider what still needs to change. For Mark, a mental health advocate and lived-experience Oliver McGowan trainer (pictured here with an award he received for his work with the NHS), that process must begin with the voices of people who know first-hand why understanding and effective support matter.

Mark said that people’s experiences of mental health need to be heard and taken seriously. He spoke about listening as an important part of building better support and stronger communities.
“It’s important for mental health to be listened to.”
Mark
Through his work as an Oliver McGowan trainer, Mark has seen how education can influence attitudes towards mental health, autism and learning disability. He discussed the importance of involving people with lived experience in training and helping others understand how to communicate effectively and offer meaningful support.
“It’s important to achieve a lot more education about mental health as well.”
Mark
Mark also follows politics closely because decisions made nationally and locally directly affect the support people receive. He wants councillors, MPs and government to place mental health firmly on the agenda by listening to lived experience, protecting community services, improving access to support and giving mental health greater priority in policy.
 
Mark spoke about the difference between political promises and action. He believes politicians, services and communities all have responsibilities. Schools, workplaces, health services and community organisations can create opportunities for people to talk and learn, while individuals can take the time to ask someone how they are and genuinely listen to the answer.
 
His message is that awareness should not be limited to a single day. He wants people to keep listening, learning and asking decision-makers what they are doing. Mark believes communities, services and politicians need to work together and pay attention to lived experience if meaningful progress is to be made.
 

In 2022, I had the chance to do something I will never forget. I was chosen to carry the Queen’s Baton as part of the Birmingham Commonwealth Games. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and even now I still feel proud when I think about it.

It all started when I was nominated. I think it was my friend Steve Nash, who worked for Birmingham City Council, who put my name forward. After that, I received an email asking if I wanted to go ahead with it. I said yes straight away, because I knew it would be something really special. Not long after, I found out I had been selected. They asked for my kit size and then sent my Commonwealth Games kit through the post. That made it feel very real.

On the day, I went to Walmley Golf Club for a briefing. I met Ama Ogbeze (pictured – left), England Netball Captain from Birmingham who won gold with England in 2018. She was really nice, and it was exciting to meet someone who had achieved so much in sport.

After the briefing, I travelled in an official Commonwealth Games car to Pype Hayes Park in Erdington. They showed me where I needed to stand and explained what would happen. I waited for the previous baton bearer to arrive, and then he passed the Baton over to me.

When I started running with it, I felt like a celebrity. There were security guards around me, and my family and friends were there watching, cheering and clapping. I remember feeling really happy and proud. It was amazing to be part of something so big, especially in Birmingham.

I was the last person to carry the Baton in Pype Hayes Park before it left the park and continued on its way towards the Opening Ceremony at Alexander Stadium. Knowing that made the moment feel even more special. The Baton had travelled through communities across the Commonwealth, and inside it was a message from the late Queen, which made it feel even more important to be part of its journey. I was part of its final journey through Birmingham on the day the Games began.

The Commonwealth Games gave me more than one special memory. I also volunteered during the Games, helping out with table tennis at the NEC. People could come and have a go, practise their serves and see how fast they could hit the ball. I helped with that, and I also got to watch some of the table tennis because I had accreditation.

I also went to watch the boxing at the NEC with my brother. It was brilliant to see the athletes compete, and I especially enjoyed watching Delicious Orie, who is from Birmingham and won gold for England. The atmosphere was really good, and I loved being part of it.

A year later, I was interviewed by Daz Hale at BBC WM at the charity shop where I work about carrying the Baton, and that was another great experience. It helped me share my story with more people.

Looking back, carrying the Queen’s Baton was one of the best things I have ever done. It made me proud to show what people with learning disabilities and autism can do when they are given opportunities. I enjoyed every minute of it, and I will always remember that day.

The main picture shows Nick with his mum Judith, dad Chris and brother Tom

To mark World Friendship Day, Amy, one of our tenants, has written about what having a true friend means to them. Their words capture the everyday moments that make friendships special: laughing together, going out, sharing holidays, making drinks and simply knowing that somebody is there when needed.
 
This is what she wrote: 
Having a true friend means being there for each other and having loads of fun together. We have loads of fun on holidays and enjoy laughing together. Having a wonderful friend whom you have known for so long means they become part of your life, always there when you need them. Special friends make hot drinks for each other, have a laugh, make jokes and look out for one another. We go to the pub for a drink and a chat with friends, have a romantic night out or share a takeaway. Most of all, we laugh and joke together.

Amy’s words remind us that friendship is not always about grand gestures. More often, it is found in a shared joke, a cup of tea, a takeaway or a conversation with somebody who understands us.
Friendships help people feel happy, confident, included and valued. However, people with learning disabilities can have fewer opportunities to meet others, take part in activities and build lasting relationships. Mencap’s research also makes an important distinction: simply being present in the community does not necessarily mean somebody feels included. Genuine social inclusion comes from meaningful connections and taking part in fulfilling activities.

Autistic people and people with Learning Disabilities can also experience barriers to friendship. The National Autistic Society explains that autistic people are more likely to experience loneliness than non-autistic people. This can result from a lack of acceptance and understanding, unsuitable sensory environments, anxiety, bullying or insufficient support.
It is equally important to recognise that everybody is different. Some people enjoy spending time alone, while others want more opportunities to socialise. Friendship should never be forced or defined for somebody else. People should have Choice over who they spend time with, what they do and where they go.

At Lisieux Trust, our role as a charity is to help remove barriers and create opportunities. Across our residential homes and supported living services, we help adults with learning disabilities and autistic adults live fulfilling lives, make their own choices and play an active part in their communities.

For example, many of our supported living tenants enjoy a regular Tuesday evening trip to the pub. It is an opportunity to catch up with friends, have a chat, relax and share plenty of laughs. The photograph accompanying this blog captures one of those evenings and the genuine sense of friendship, community and fun that makes these trips so special.

Our values of Choice, Trust, Inspiration, Fun and Welcoming are all reflected in friendship. Strong friendships are built on trust. They bring fun and inspiration into our lives. Most importantly, they begin when people are made to feel genuinely welcome.

As Lisieux Trust prepares to celebrate its 40th anniversary, we are proud of the friendships that have grown across our homes and services. For four decades, our charity has worked to ensure that people are not simply supported, but listened to, valued and given opportunities to live, laugh and build relationships together.

National Friendship Day gives us the perfect opportunity to celebrate every one of those relationships—and all the cups of coffee, jokes, outings and conversations that make them special.

Sources

 

My name is Nick and I am a tenant at Lisieux Trust. One of my favourite things to do is collect autographs from famous cricketers. I have been doing it for about six or seven years now, and I have collected lots of autographs along the way.

I am a big Warwickshire CCC supporter and started collecting autographs when I went to Edgbaston on my own and began asking players to sign things for me. Since then, I have been to lots of places, including Worcester, Wormsley, John Paul Getty’s private ground, Trent Bridge and Rugby — we even got into the hospitality there! Recently, we went to Hertfordshire. I really enjoy going to the matches, watching the cricket and seeing who I might meet.

I have met some brilliant players over the years. Some of the most famous autographs I have include Ben Stokes, Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh. I have also met players who have been really kind to me, including Imran Tahir and Kai Smith. Some players have even given me jumpers and other things, which makes the memories even more special.

The women’s teams have been really nice to me too. I have had pictures taken with players and collected lots of autographs from them. I am still hoping to get a couple more, including Issy Wong and Ellyse Perry, and I will keep trying when I get the chance.

Recently, I met loads of players, including. Warks captain, Ed Barnard,  and Australian men’s international Beau Webster,  as well as star women’s players, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Jess Jonasson, Georgia Redmayne and Sterre Kalis (all pictured below).

For me, collecting autographs is not just about the signatures. My favourite part is meeting different people. Most of the players have been really friendly, and I have made some good friends through cricket as well. I want to give a shout-out to Sanjay, Kal and Andy. Sanjay has taken me to loads of places, and Kal has helped me too. Going to cricket with friends makes the whole experience even better.

If someone else wanted to start collecting autographs, I would say: go and try it. You never know who you might meet, and you might make new friends along the way.

I really enjoy collecting autographs, watching the cricket and being part of it all. Come on, the Bears!

I went on holiday to Clacton-on-Sea with my housemates, and I had a really lovely time. We stayed on a caravan site in Essex, and when we arrived, we settled in and got used to where everything was. On the Monday evening, we went to the restaurant on the site and had something nice to eat together. It was a good start to the holiday.

On Tuesday, we went around the site to have a look at everything. The caravan areas all had names, and ours was called Abigail, which I thought was a nice name. It was good walking around and seeing where things were, because the site was quite big and there was plenty to look at.

On Wednesday, we went out for the day and visited Colchester Zoo. I enjoyed seeing the animals, although some of them were kept safely behind glass or in cages so they could not hurt anyone. The zoo was absolutely massive, and there was so much to see. We walked around for a long time and looked at lots of different animals. Afterwards, I bought some things, including keyrings and a panda toy for myself. I also got a toy and a keyring as presents, including one for Katie at Ebrook Day Centre who has a little boy who is due in September.

On Thursday, we had a quieter day and took it easy. In the evening, we watched the football together, which was good fun. Then on Friday we came back home. I really enjoyed the holiday and spending time with my housemates. It was nice to go somewhere different, have meals out, visit the zoo, buy a few treats and make good memories. I would definitely like to go again next year.

A recent survey highlighted a worrying reality for people with learning disabilities looking for work. While most employers believe people with learning disabilities can be productive employees, almost half admit they do not employ anyone with a learning disability. One of the biggest reasons? They are afraid of getting it wrong.

The findings reveal that many employers worry about saying the wrong thing, making mistakes during recruitment, or not knowing what adjustments to make. Yet at Lisieux Trust, our experience tells us that the answer isn’t to involve people with learning disabilities less – it’s to involve them more.

One way we do this is by ensuring residents and tenants play an active role in recruiting the people who will support them.

When interviewing new support workers, often, the people we support sit alongside managers and have a genuine voice in the process. After all, the people receiving support are often the best judges of the qualities that make a great support worker.

We are also proud of the diversity within our workforce. Many colleagues come from neurodiverse backgrounds, bringing valuable perspectives, skills and experiences that help strengthen the support we provide.

Julia, a tenant, recently took part in interviews for a new member of staff alongside Operations Manager Alison O’Meara and Registered Manager Hayley Watson.

It was an experience Julia clearly enjoyed. “Alison and Hayley did the writing on the Lisieux Trust forms and I did the ticking the boxes, how well I rated the new support worker,” she said. “Alison was very proud of me.”

When asked how the experience made her feel, Julia’s answer captured exactly why involvement matters.

“I felt very important to the Lisieux Trust management and I really felt so proud.”

Those words say a great deal. Recruitment is about finding the right people, but it can also be about confidence, empowerment and ensuring people’s voices are heard.

At this charity, we believe support should be built around choice and involvement. That extends to the decisions that shape daily life, including who joins our team.

The survey suggests many employers are worried about getting it wrong. Our experience is that the best way to get it right is to listen to people with learning disabilities and give them a seat at the table. The same principle applies to building an inclusive workforce. When organisations focus on people’s strengths and contributions rather than perceived barriers, everyone benefits.

For us, inclusion is not simply a policy. It is something we put into practice every day. Whether it is supporting people to make choices about their lives, involving them in recruitment, or embracing the diversity of our workforce, we know that better outcomes come when more voices are heard.

And as Julia’s experience shows, sometimes that can make someone feel very proud indeed.

Sources:

Nearly half of UK employers fear getting it wrong when employing people with learning disabilities – Learning Disability Today

https://www.mencap.org.uk/

 

For Learning Disability Awareness Week, Rosa shares her journey of learning, independence, and helping others—showing how, with the right support, people can grow, thrive, and make a real difference in their communities.

My name is Rosa, and I have a learning disability. It’s something I’ve lived with all my life, but it has never stopped me from wanting to learn, grow, and be part of my community.

Growing up, I knew I could do things—I just had to do them in my own way. I learned to adapt. For example, at school I found using a computer much easier than writing by hand, and that helped me express myself. I attended special schools where everyone had different needs, and we supported each other. It wasn’t always easy, but I learned that there is no one right way to learn—just the way that works for you.

After school, I went to Derwen College in Shropshire, where I studied animal care. I’ve always loved animals, and I was proud to complete my course over three years. That experience helped me grow in confidence and independence. When I finished college, I made the decision to move into supported living at Liseux Trust. I wanted to be more independent and take control of my own life—and I’m really glad I did. I joined at the same time as one of my friends from the college, Irina, who is still here now, like me.

“I could do things—I just had to do them in a way that worked for me.”

When I first started living here, I was very quiet. I didn’t talk much or share how I felt. But over the years, I’ve changed. I’ve become more confident, more open, and better at understanding my own emotions. I may take a bit longer to process things sometimes, but once I understand, I really understand—I “get it,” as I like to say.

Learning has always been important to me, and I’ve continued going to college for many years, at the moment I am going to Erdington Adult Education Centre. I recently passed my maths, which I’m very proud of, and I’m looking at new courses like video editing. I also volunteer and have worked in different roles over the years, including charity shops and a day centre, where I spent many happy years helping elderly people with dementia. It was stressful at times but it was rewarding.

One of the things I enjoy most is organising workshops and events. I’ve helped run wellbeing sessions, arts and crafts activities, and even helped organise talent shows and pantos. I love bringing people together. For me, it’s about helping others feel good, get out of the house, and enjoy themselves. It also helps me with my own wellbeing—I like being busy, and I like feeling that I’m making a difference.

“I like helping people feel happy—and that helps me too.”

Helping people is really important to me. I like to see people happy—or to help them find their happiness. It gives me a sense of purpose. I also enjoy drama and performing, and I’d love to keep doing more of that in the future.

Looking back, I can see how far I’ve come. From a quiet person who struggled to speak up, to someone who runs activities, learns new skills, and supports others. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been worth it.

For Learnng Disability Awareness Week, the theme is “Do You See Me?” And my answer is this: I hope people see not just my disability, but my strengths, my kindness, and my determination. I am always learning, always growing, and always trying to be the best version of myself.

 

Over recent weeks, staff have worked in a structured, planned and consistent way to support Tom to develop the skills needed to travel independently in the community. This work formed part of Tom’s wider independence and life‑skills development and was carefully overseen by his previous manager, Becky. During Learning Disability Awareness Week 2026, with its theme “Do you see me?”, this achievement is a powerful example of how individuals can be supported to be seen, heard, and valued through meaningful independence.

Staff began by completing travel training with Tom to his local shop, Joshua’s. This involved accompanying Tom on the journey several times, modelling safe behaviour, offering prompts where needed, and gradually reducing support as his confidence increased. Staff carefully observed Tom’s ability to follow road safety rules, cross roads safely, and use pedestrian crossings appropriately, while also monitoring how calm and comfortable he felt completing the route.

Following these supported journeys, staff were confident that Tom could complete the route safely and independently. Becky completed the sign‑off process after observing and reviewing Tom’s progress. As a result of this thorough preparation and risk‑aware approach, Tom has been approved to attend the local shop on his own.

Clear boundaries and systems have been put in place by staff to ensure Tom’s ongoing safety and wellbeing. These include agreed-upon times for leaving and returning, logging journeys with staff, agreeing return times before Tom leaves, and following his care plan procedures if he does not return as expected. Staff also provide consistent support around budgeting, limiting visits to once per day, and using cash only. This information is shared during staff handovers to maintain consistency.

Tom’s own words reflect the structured support staff have provided. He explained, “I was with the staff all the first times, and then I went by myself and I’ve been signed off by myself.” This highlights the gradual and confidence‑building approach staff took before reducing support.

Staff have continued to reinforce the message that independence goes beyond community travel. Alongside this work, staff support Tom to develop independence in other areas, including daily routines, completing chores, managing laundry responsibilities, and taking medication correctly and on time.

The positive impact of staff support is evident in Tom’s confidence and well-being. When asked how travelling independently makes him feel, Tom said it makes him feel “happy” and that it gives him “greater independence,” adding, “That’s what I wanted.” He also shared his enjoyment in choosing items for himself, saying he buys “things I like for my own kitchen and my bathroom.” Achievements like this reflect the message of Learning Disability Awareness Week, showing how the right support enables people with a learning disability to live the lives they choose.

Staff encouragement has also helped Tom to think positively about the future. He has spoken about wanting to visit other local shops independently, such as Tesco’s, and eventually travelling to work on his own. He also spoke positively about his work placement, saying, “It’s alright, really. I enjoy it.”

Overall, this achievement demonstrates the impact of patient, consistent and person‑centred staff support. Through careful planning, clear communication, agreed boundaries and positive encouragement, staff have enabled Tom to develop a key life skill safely and successfully. In line with the spirit of Learning Disability Awareness Week, Tom’s journey highlights how people can be supported not just to gain independence, but to be recognised, included, and valued within their community.

I recently went on holiday to Butlin’s in Minehead with my housemates Jill, Amy and Michael, and we were joined by Deputy Manager Emma and Support Worker Christine. I was really excited about going away and it felt special to have a break somewhere different with people I know well.

As soon as we arrived, I could tell it was going to be a lovely holiday. It was nice to be all together, enjoy the fresh sea air and spend time relaxing as well as having fun. Going on holiday like this gave me the chance to try new things, laugh a lot and make happy memories with everyone.

We stayed in the apartments at Butlin’s and made the most of everything there was to do. I really enjoyed being able to spend time with my housemates during the day and then talk about our favourite parts in the evening.

There was always something to look forward to. Some of the highlights for me were visiting the amusement arcade, collecting tokens and having a ride on the steam train. I also really enjoyed the atmosphere around the resort, because there was so much going on and it felt lively and cheerful.

One of the most exciting parts of the holiday was going on the zip wire. It made me feel brave and it was a lot of fun. It was one of those moments that made the holiday feel like a real adventure and gave us all something to smile about afterwards.

One of the most interesting parts of the trip was when we went to see the animals. It was a hands-on experience where we could get close to them and even hold some of them if we wanted to. I decided to hold the hedgehog, which I really liked, but I did not want to hold the snake. Michael was brave and held the snake, and Christine did as well. It was exciting to watch, even though I was happier sticking with the hedgehog. I enjoyed trying something different and it made the holiday feel even more special and memorable.

Another part of the holiday I really enjoyed was the food. My favourite had to be the free pancakes at breakfast, which I thought were the best thing I ate while we were away. It was also lovely to have time to relax, enjoy meals together and talk about what we had been doing. On the last day, I liked choosing some souvenirs to remember the holiday, including a teddy bear and a pen, which will remind me of the fun we had at Minehead. I want to say a big thank you to Emma and Christine for helping to make the holiday so special and for supporting us throughout the trip. Their help meant we could enjoy ourselves, feel comfortable and get the most out of our time away. I had such a great time at Butlin’s that I would love to go back again next year.

 

When I moved into Lisieux Trust in July 2025, I felt a mixture of excitement and nerves. It was a big step for me. I’d never lived independently before, and although I had visited a few times and met everyone, I still felt worried about how it would all work. Looking back over my first eight months, I can honestly say: I’m loving it.

Living here has been completely different to living at home. For the first time, I feel like I’m truly independent. The staff haven’t just done things for me – they’ve supported me to do things for myself. That’s made all the difference.

One of the biggest things for me has been having my voice heard. TJ, one of the senior support workers, has been amazing. He makes sure I get one-to-one time when I need it and really listens to how I’m feeling. I feel respected and understood. I’m encouraged to speak up about what I want, what I enjoy and what matters to me.

Staff support me with everyday skills that help me live more independently. I have my own cleaning day each week, where I hoover and tidy my room. I take turns cooking in the house too – Saturdays are my turn. Staff help me plan what I’m making, get the right ingredients and pans out, and support me in the kitchen so I can cook safely and confidently. It’s not about someone else doing it – it’s about me learning and doing it myself, with the right support.

I also have support in the community. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, I spend time with my personal support worker, Louise, who my parents pay for separately. We go out to places like Hatton Park to feed the animals and visit local farms. These days out help me build confidence and enjoy new experiences. On other days, I love doing crystal art and colouring. The staff don’t take over – they sit with me, encourage me and share the enjoyment. Sonia even helped me find new crystal art kits because she knows how much I love it.

Moving in was emotional at first. I was nervous, and there were big meetings to plan everything properly. But Becky, [manager before she left], really helped me settle. She reassured me, made time for me, and even made me hot chocolate when I needed one. I remember feeling overwhelmed at times, and she would give me a hug and make sure I was okay. Emma, the deputy was also brilliant – keeping me calm during meetings and helping me feel comfortable from the very start.

Another important part of becoming independent has been making my space my own. I chose the colours for my bedroom – pink and lilac – because they’re my favourite. I wanted a unicorn theme, and that’s exactly what I got. Becky calls it my “Princess Palace.” Having a bedroom that reflects me makes me feel proud and settled.

In these first eight months, I’ve made lots of new friends and grown in confidence. I feel happier, more independent and more in control of my life. The support I receive at Lisieux Trust isn’t about being looked after – it’s about being empowered.

I truly love being part of Lisieux Trust. It feels like home.