Learning Disability Week shines a light on the barriers people with a learning disability can face, while celebrating the strengths, achievements and contributions they bring to our communities.
Across Derbyshire, our supported learning provision will take centre stage as we showcase the incredible achievements, creativity and individuality of our learners.
Throughout the week, we'll be hosting events in:
- Glossop on Tuesday 16 June 2026
- Swadlincote on Wednesday 17 June 2026
- Clay Cross on Thursday 18 June 2026
- Cotmanhay on Friday 19 June 2026
Each event will bring together learners, families, carers, staff and partner organisations to celebrate inclusive learning and community.
This is an opportunity to highlight not just what learners do, but who they are, ensuring their voices are visible, heard and celebrated.
What's happening during the week
Community and open events
Community and family engagement sessions: Open events where families, carers and partners can meet learners, view displays and find out more about our supported learning offer.
Exhibitions of learner work: Artwork, photography, poems and short statements exploring identity, confidence and the theme 'Do you see me?'
Short learner videos: Celebrating achievements, ambitions and everyday wins.
Inclusive activities and taster sessions
Try something new: Art, fitness, gardening, cooking and other 'have a go' workshops, designed to be accessible and learner-led.
Inclusive activities: Sessions designed with learners in mind, promoting participation, enjoyment and confidence.
Wellbeing and self-advocacy
Wellbeing-focused activities: Gentle movement, relaxation, confidence-building and self-advocacy sessions.
Celebration moments and certificates: Recognising strengths such as resilience, kindness, teamwork and creativity.
Explore our supported learning courses.
Explore all DACES courses.
Working with our partners
We're pleased to welcome a range of partner organisations to take part in our events. They'll:
- host information stalls
- share advice, guidance and resources
- promote services that support people with a learning disability and their families
- help learners and carers access opportunities within the community
If you'd like to host a stall at one of the events, complete the Learning Disability Week collaboration form.
For partner enquiries or to get involved, email cs.supportedlearning@derbyshire.gov.uk.
Why this week matters
'Do you see me?' is a reminder that people with a learning disability should be:
- seen for who they are
- heard in decisions that affect their lives
- valued for their contributions
- included in their communities
At DACES, we believe that inclusion means more than participation - it means belonging. We're committed to creating learning environments where everyone feels respected, supported and able to thrive.
During the week, we will be sharing learner stories, quotes and experiences to ensure their perspectives remain at the heart of what we do.
Get involved
For partners and organisations
We welcome partners who would like to:
- host a stall
- share information or resources
- support activities
- celebrate learner achievements
To express interest, complete the Learning Disability Week collaboration form or email cs.supportedlearning@derbyshire.gov.uk.
For families and carers
Join us at your local event to:
- meet tutors and staff
- explore learner work and exhibitions
- discover opportunities available through our supported learning programmes
- connect with partner organisations and support services
For learners
This is your week:
- take part in activities and taster sessions
- share your voice through art, words, video or performance
- celebrate your achievements, strengths and ambitions
Learn more and take action
To explore national resources, stories and campaign materials, visit the Mencap Learning Disability Week pages, where you can find:
- information about learning disability
- campaign tools to challenge stigma
- real stories from people with lived experience
- ways to support inclusion and visibility
You can also explore Mencap campaigns to learn how you can help create a more inclusive society.
Contact us
For event details, partnership opportunities, or general enquiries, email cs.supportedlearning@derbyshire.gov.uk.
Together, we can create a more inclusive Derbyshire where every learner is seen, heard and valued.