The Big Chat
9th November 2007

Tameside Learning Disability Partnership Board

"Having fun and staying healthy"

Having fun and being fit and healthy was the subject of a one-day conference for adults with learning disabilities and their carers in Tameside.

The Big Chat, Tameside Learning Disability Partnership Board, a borough-wide forum for people with learning disabilities, organised the conference, which was held at Hyde Town Hall on Friday 9th November 2007 in partnership with local health and social care professionals and voluntary organisations.

The purpose of the event was to help adults with learning disabilities and their carers, think about their lifestyle and consider how their health is an important part of it.

Many people with learning disabilities have obstacles to overcome before they are able to take part in leisure activities, including issues around transport, access, needing emotional or physical support to take part, or clear information about services and support available. People had the opportunity to discuss how to make minor changes to their current lifestyles and consider trying new things.

Local groups had information stalls and managers held surgeries to help people think about their own lives and address issues they might have around health and leisure opportunities.

There was a drama presentation, by The Chatterbox Theatre Group and people joined in workshops to try different activities such as Wheelchair Line Dancing, Curling and Boccia.

The famous Big Brother Chair was back; allowing people the opportunity to air their views and put their thoughts across on video; whilst taking home a picture souvenir of themselves sat on the chair.

Students at Union St Learning Centre demonstrated how to make fruit smoothies, the results were delicious. Another exciting activity included personal hygiene and tips on looking good.

Carers were not ignored with Tai Chi, hand massage sessions and information seminars

The event was filmed by Tameside TV and The Big Chat is available to view here.

If you do not have Realplayer, please visit www.real.com (for free Realplayer download).

For more details about the event contact: Alison Shockledge User Involvement and Development Worker on 0161 304 7981 or Send a Message to Alison or Caroline Bates Partnership Board Co-ordinator on 0161 308 3699 or send an email: caroline.bates@pftameside.org

Chatter Box Theatre Group with Councillors Taylor and Walsh and Stephanie Butterworth and Diane Walton

Hilary Newton enjoying the Big Brother Chair, with Maureen Hylton, Jill Halkyard, Liz Wright, Giovanna Surico and Heather Phillips