Mencap Gateway Award Centre
Summit are very excited to announce that we are now a recognised ‘Mencap Gateway Award Centre’ which will provide numerous opportunities for staff and students.
The award is described by Mencap as:
“An activity-based award which people with learning disability, of any age or ability, can take part in. It’s about experiencing new things, building confidence, achieving goals and getting more involved in the community. People taking part in the award set their own goals, decide what activities they want to do, and progress at their own pace.” (https://www.mencap.org.uk/about-us/our-projects/gateway-award)
The award will allow for different areas to be developed such as hobbies, fitness, volunteering, lifestyle choices and a Gateway Challenge which can be personal or within a group setting.
We are always looking for new experiences and ways to enrich learning in real-life scenarios. Encouraging participation in new activities and building on transferable skills will be invaluable moving forwards and developing independence.
The volunteering component will provide the chance to help others and make a difference within the community whilst having a sense of achievement and purpose. These placements will often involve a social environment where communication can be practised and new friendships can be made.
The lifestyle and fitness sections examine nutrition, fitness and wellbeing which will increase awareness of general health and the importance of a healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Developing and finding new hobbies will unlock new interests which can further enrich daily life and basic skills. For many individuals it is key to find a focus and drive which simultaneously provides motivation, interest and a topic of conversation that is relevant and enjoyable to discuss.
Finally the Gateway challenge itself creates an opportunity to plan and carry out an activity or event that will challenge the individual.This is a goal based task that can be individually achieved or as part of a team.
The above only provides a very brief outline of what the award will provide but Summit is looking forward to participating and achieving our goals!