Now, he and many others regularly attend JBU sessions and this is growing all the time. They enjoy the chance to take part in craft activities, play pool or other games, as well as just hang out with friends. While there are quiet areas for those that prefer them, the JBU team have also responded to feedback from its members saying that the people attending also want to party!
This reflects wider feedback gathered as part of Grace Eyre’s recent user survey that found that the people they support want more celebrations, for example having birthdays parties.
The JBU club regularly celebrates its members’ birthdays, as well as other dates in the calendar. At Christmas, those attending enjoyed a three-course meal and, in February, love was in the air at its Valentine’s party, where roses and chocolates were given out as presents, people enjoyed Valentines crafts and dancing, and several couples attended.
This included Kane and Milly who are supported to live together by Grace Eyre.
Only 3% of people with a learning disability live as a couple, compared to 70% of the general adult population.
But many people with a learning disability would like to find a loving relationship, just like those without a learning disability and, with the right guidance and support, most are able to.
Grace Eyre supports relationships and friendships by helping people to learn about consent and managing risk, as well as helping with the practical side of meeting up and spending time together when needed.
Other couples at the event included Sophie and Giles who live separately but enjoy coming to JBU as an opportunity to see each other. Amy and Anthony also enjoy meeting up on dates at the JBU club and have benefitted from guidance provided by staff on maintaining a relationship and staying safe.
Louisa Milne, Grace Eyre Service Manager, said:
“The JBU club has been going well and, as well as all the normal activities we offer, we’ve loved being able to host a range of celebrations for our members.
“The Valentine’s party was a chance to celebrate all the opportunities we offer at JBU, welcome new people and, for the various couples who come here, to celebrate Valentines Day.
“Relationships are not always encouraged or supported for people with a learning disability but – reflecting Grace Eyre’s Charter and ethos – we think everyone should be able to have strong and supported relationships, including romantic ones if they wish.
“Grace Eyre supports people to spend time with the people they want to, whether as friends or partners, and JBU offers a much-needed social option where they can do that, as well as meet new people, here in Bognor Regis.”
Karen, who is supported by Grace Eyre and attends JBU, added:
“It’s good fun meeting people, especially meeting other people with a learning disability or who are autistic. Before Just Be You, I’d just sit in and watch TV. I felt bored and now I feel happy and excited.”
If you’d like to find out more about the JBU or are interested in signing up, please contact Louisa at lmilne@grace-eyre.org.