Today is World Down Syndrome Day: 21st March 2026
This year we are calling on everyone to stand Together Against Loneliness.
A study found that 39% of people with intellectual disabilities often feel lonely, compared to 14% of people without disabilities*.
It’s important to take care of yourself and the people around you. That’s why we at Grace Eyre are all about people, fun, friendship and having new experiences in a safe and supported environment.
Our activities help people make real connections and create a feeling of belonging. They also establish connections with the wider community, break down barriers and contribute to a more equal and inclusive society.
4 ways to beat loneliness
We offer loads of activities that can help you meet people and make friends.
Here are 4 practical ways to feel connected and belong at Grace Eyre:
1. Get involved in Active Lives
Active Lives offers pioneering activities for people with a learning disability and autistic people in Brighton & Hove and West Sussex.
The activities run throughout the week by our Active Lives team and other partners encourage ambition and progression in a safe and supported environment.
From employability and skills courses to travelling training, there’s a lot to choose from.
2. Go to a Purple Productions event
Purple Productions is Grace Eyre’s events team. They produce events for and by adults with learning disabilities and autistic people.
They currently run a monthly Purple Clubhouse and Karaoke, games nights, Pokemon Club and more.
3. Join our JBU – Just Be You Club
JBU is an exciting new club run by and for people in Bognor Regis who receive support from Grace Eyre.
This is a service user-run club in a safe space where people can plan their own activities, meet up and just be themselves.
The club has a large, open and bright main room with pool tables, kitchen and kitchen/dining area, craft and games area, games tables and chill out area, a console room and a large garden.
Come along to connect, create, celebrate and just enjoy being you!
4. Be a Grace Eyre Ambassador
The Grace Eyre Ambassadors are a team of self-advocates who:
- advise on projects and accessibility
- run forums in conjunction with other departments to gather the views of people we support
- decide and support organisational campaigns; and
- sit on internal and external panels.
Apply to be a Grace Eyre Ambassador
*Bishop, Llewellyn and Kavanagh, Australia (2024)