People First Dorset (PFD) is a local charity led and run by us, adults with learning disabilities, with support from skilled staff. We want to be treated equally and be included in our community. 

To achieve this PFD run activities which help us to reduce our social isolation and build confidence (Friendship Club). Next, we get to learn about our rights, improve our communication skills, and develop our ability to challenge decisions together, known as self-advocacy (Speaking Up project). 

We run 50-300 activities annually, depending on funding. These reach 300-500 adults with a learning disability across Dorset. 

Self-advocacy is a crucial skill for someone with a learning disability. It enables us to speak up for ourselves, and can protect us against abuse, neglect and institutionalisation. We cannot learn or maintain these skills if we are excluded from society, with few opportunities to meet others and socialise. 

PFD addresses this, by laying the foundations to be a self-advocate, in Friendship Club activities, then developed in Speaking Up groups. PFD also run other bespoke projects and workshops where possible, which meet our needs i.e., men's and women's groups; a course on better understanding the environment and climate change; money budgeting workshops; a social communications skills course; a sports inclusion project; a project which supported 4 individuals to move into their own home; wellbeing groups and much more! 

PFD also takes part in research projects when possible. These ensure we contribute to helping improve the lives of people with a learning disability both locally and nationally i.e., stigma research with UCL; ageing with Manchester University; inclusion with Wellcome Connecting Science. 

The best way to 'get our work' is to join in. 
Or watch our (2minute 41second - we know you may be time short!) vibrant video!
https://youtu.be/HQhcHXlqnGs



People First Dorset

Org chart

Teams

Offices

People First Dorset

Org chart

Teams

Offices

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