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.