This week Learning Disability England is spotlighting Chapter 2 of the Good Lives Framework ‘Communication and Staying Connected’ and good practice in this area.

Sophie Mahar, Community Projects Delivery Manager at Community Integrated Care has written a blog to share about an online platform of free, accessible experiences for people with learning disabilities who draw on social care…

At Community Integrated Care we recognise how important it is for people who draw on social care to stay connected with others, and believe that every person should live their Best Life Possible.

That’s why we created What-To-Do.co.uk – a unique digital platform offering free, interactive, online experiences every week for people who have learning disabilities.

Every week, we bring people together for exciting experiences – from concerts with Broadway stars live from New York City, to cook-alongs with Great British Bake Off favourites, and even dance sessions with Strictly Come Dancing pros!

These aren’t just fun experiences – we aim to make them moments of connection, creativity, and skill-building that are taking place in a supportive, encouraging and inclusive environment.

All sessions are hosted on Zoom, and we work with our facilitators to ensure that everyone is able to participate. This might mean adapting some elements of the delivery to engage audiences with a diverse range of needs, providing Easy Read guides to support understanding, or using mixed media to present information.

Research from The Belonging Forum (2024) found that 40% of disabled people feel isolated and lonely.

What To Do offers one way that people can be part of a real community built on shared passions, friendships and meaningful experiences.

One support worker from Cumbria recently told us:

“The person I support can’t wait to take part in What To Do every week – he loves meeting and talking to new people.”

From the south coast of England to the Highlands of Scotland, people are connecting, laughing, learning, and growing together.

The Good Lives Framework from Learning Disability England highlights just how important communication and staying connected really are. But many people with learning disabilities still face barriers to being included – both in everyday life and online.

That’s why it’s so powerful when social care organisations come together with a shared belief: that everyone has the right to access technology and get the support they need to be part of the digital world.

With the right tools and support, people can stay connected and fully take part in communities, including virtual communities like this.

What To Do is working to make sure people who draw on care and support feel seen and included.

Whether you’re a person who draws on social care, a support worker, a family member, or a community group – you’re invited. Every session is free and accessible!

Visit www.What-To-Do.co.uk to explore the schedule, join our mailing list, and get involved.

Or contact us at community@c-i-c.co.uk to find out how you can get involved and share your ideas.