The Specials

A new online docusoap about the lives of young people with a learning disability has recently been launched. The first 10 minute episode can be viewed on line at The Specials. I have had a little trouble with a slow broadband connection but I've watched it through frequent buffering.It could be really useful when talking about relationships and developing leisure activities. Well worth a look.The Guardian has a preview clip and a review 'Friends meets Skins' with a difference

A Night Out

All over the United Kingdom young adults with a learning disability have been benefiting from night clubs and discos especially for them.
In 1995 Heartnsoul piloted a club night event called The Beautiful Octopus Club with live performance and DJs. Beautiful Octopus club is now also in Leeds at West Yorkshire Playhouse. and HeartnSoul have helped to set up the Barrucuda Club in Belfast.
This You Tube video from Heartnsoul features young people talking about why the Beautiful Octopus Club is so important to them.


Brighton and West Sussex also have night clubs for adults with a learning disability . These are run by Carousel an arts organisation and include :
The Blue Oasis Club, Horsham
The Blue Bird Club, Crawley
The Blue Wave Club, Bognor Regis
The Blue Starfish Club, Worthing

The Brighton based Blue Camel Club was recently featured on BBC South Today . Watch a 3 minute video here.