Nutley Edge is an inspiring holiday site that gives adults with learning disabilities and on the autism spectrum a chance to feel empowered
Adults with learning disabilities and autism are some of the most vulnerable people in society when it comes to feeling isolated, forgotten and misunderstood. Often having a ‘normal’ life can be a daily battle and going on holiday seems like an impossible dream.
Outward, a charity in London that works to help adults with learning disabilities and autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have greater choice, independence and control over how they live their lives – opened a holiday site in 2012 with the hope of turning that dream into a reality.
The holiday site called Nutley Edge hosts group holidays specifically for adults with learning disabilities and ASD. They call these group holidays ‘Activity Breaks’, because they include trips and activities for the guests to take part in throughout their stay, while also giving them time to relax and enjoy the tranquillity and slow pace of country life.
On these Activity Breaks guests feel included, accepted and empowered by staff and other guests through the genuine connections they make, being able to help staff with daily tasks and having people that truly care – look out for them. One guest who attends 3-4 Activity Breaks each year stated that “she felt the happiest she had in a long time due to the staff and guests.”
Many who attend for the first time find it quite daunting because it’s a new experience but all who fear it are happy they attended, with many returning again with a friend or even arranging a return trip with new friends they made on the Activity Breaks.
One guest; a 20 year old woman with complex health and support needs had a 1:1 support worker in place when she attended her first activity break. It was her first holiday away from her parents where she did not know anyone, but she thrived and showed how content she could be in a new environment. She now attends regularly and her parents are so pleased, saying “Wow, such an amazing place, Nutley Edge is so secure, so safe and a really beautiful setting. The Themed Activities are amazing and really well thought out and planned. Very person centred and every member of staff always puts the person first. Our daughter especially enjoys going shopping and to the Seaside. The staff always give feedback about what she has done. Medication is given to her by the staff, as well as her care. We are so happy and very confident with everyone and everything at Nutley Edge”.
More information about the Activity Breaks at Nutley Edge can be found on www.nutleyedge.org.uk/charitable-activities/specialist-activity-breaks/
