Each month we feature an inspirational individual or team who overcome barriers to make a real difference in their communities. This month we feature Cardiff People First who’s innovative way of connecting people during the pandemic landed them a place on the Dimensions Coronavirus Learning Disability and Autism Leaders’ List.
Introducing…Cardiff People First
Cardiff People First do what they say they do…they put people first. Pre-pandemic, this was a thriving group with regular meetings, social groups and face to face interactions. They gave people the human connection we all need. But as the pandemic hit they had to find a new way to connect with their members.
Keep calm and carry online
All of a sudden! They were working from home; in a scary new world where nothing was certain. It was more important than ever to keep in touch with their members.
Their many projects and groups had to change;
- ‘Standing Up and Speaking Out’? Online.
- The ‘Self-Advocacy University’? Online.
- ‘Come Together’ groups? Online.
You get the idea…
Members suddenly had to navigate their way through video calls and instant messaging. Not everyone was already online, and even those who were still had to get used to this new way of working.
It wasn’t easy. It meant a change in work routine and making sure they had the right space and technology at home.
They also had to find the confidence to be online, star in video conferences and type instant messages.
But they were there to help and guide each other.
And it was worth it. Together they’ve built a new community and help each other during this strange new world we’re living in.
Find out more about Cardiff People First by visiting their website and following @CardiffPF on Twitter.
The Coronavirus Learning Disability and Autism Leaders’ List is produced by Dimensions in partnership with Learning Disability England and VODG. It is an adapted version of the annual Learning Disability and Autism Leaders’ List.
dimensions-uk.org/covidleaderslist
Follow @DimensionsUK and #CovidLeadersList to stay up to date.
