A Canterbury charity is highlighting how friendships and social connections can improve the wellbeing and independence of people with learning disabilities.
The Fifth Trust is marking International Friendship Day on Thursday, July 30 by sharing the experiences of students attending its Skills Centre, cafés, gardens and social enterprises.
The charity supports people with learning disabilities to develop practical skills, build confidence and take part in activities within the local community.
It said these opportunities also help students form friendships with other students, staff and customers, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Research published by disability charity Sense in 2017 found that more than half of disabled people experienced loneliness. This increased to 77 per cent among those aged between 18 and 34.
Students interviewed as part of research by the University of Kent's Tizard Centre described how attending The Fifth Trust had helped them develop lasting friendships.
One student said: “I never really had friends in the past before I came here. Now I do. I make friends at horticulture.”
Another said: “I don't see my friends from college anymore, and I used to feel lonely. You get to know the new students that come in here when you're doing activities. They are my new friends now.”
A third student said they had met their best friend on their first day at the charity 15 years ago.
The Fifth Trust said the responses demonstrated the importance of providing people with learning disabilities with opportunities to socialise, contribute to their communities and develop greater independence.
The charity will use International Friendship Day to celebrate the friendships formed across its services and recognise the staff, students and supporters who help create a sense of belonging.
