Making communication work at Northants LDPB conference

Consensus were delighted to support this years ‘All About You’ event hosted by Northants Learning Disability Partnership Board and Northamptonshire County Council.

Based on the success of previous years, the conference focussed on communication with people with a learning disability. Hosted at the Kettering Conference Centre on the 9th May, the event was well attended by people with learning disabilities and organisations who provide services for and on behalf of people with learning disabilities and complex needs.

The event provided practical information, advice and guidance about good communication for people with a learning disability with a strong focus on interactive activities.

John an individual supported by Consensus and also one of our Experts by Experience was delighted to be presented with an award recognising his contribution to the Partnership Board as a Champion of the Northants LDPB.

Our stall was a hub of activity as people shared their views on how they prefer to communicate, which was all captured in a thoroughly engaging way by our resident animator on the day.

Good eye contact, “talk to me, not my carer” and speaking clearly, loudly and slowly were some of the common answers provided on how people liked to be interacted with. People also said that using different forms of communication such as easy read, sign language and pictures, really helped them to understand situations and helped them to be understood by others.

People we support from across Northamptonshire performed a wonderful drama sketch about good communication when out shopping. The sketch featured a shop front named Links Grocers where supported individuals showcased the many varied and different ways in which they communicate when they are searching for and buying products.

In addition, we showcased a range of easy read materials that help individuals with a learning disability participate in everyday life including in important activities such as receiving medical treatments or advice and activities they have a legal right to participate in such as voting in local/general elections.

We would like to thank everyone who attended and made the day such an enormous success and look forward to participating again next year.