Leeds Mencap, Children and The Magic of Film

For some people, it is very difficult to experience what we take as fairly normal activity, whether it’s shopping, travelling on public transport or a trip to the theatre or cinema.  Mencap’s research and experience have revealed that 70% of parents with a child with a learning disability feel unwelcome and uncomfortable in public.   

A trip to a cinema is an example of something which should be an enjoyable family outing – but is fraught with difficulty for those who cannot cope with particular levels of noise and bright lights; who therefore feel socially isolated.   

Leeds Mencap is trying hard to overcome the obstacles and has arranged a special, relaxed and private screening of The Lego Movie 2: The Second Part, at The Vue Leeds Light on 27 April.  The lights will be dimmed, the sound lowered and the children free to move around.  Children will be treated to a drink and a snack, and donations will also go towards Leeds Mencap’s Family Support Service.   

“We are asking the good folk of Leeds to support the event by buying a place for one of our children (which includes a drink and a snack) for just £30. This donation will also help to fund our Family Support Service which provides vital emotional and practical support to children and parents, so they can just get on with being a family,” said Sarah Hooker, Head of Fundraising at Leeds Mencap.   

Leeds Mencap is a completely independent charity, working only in Leeds.  It needs to secure all its own funding each year to be able to continue to support children, their families and carers.   

Leeds Mencap has this to say:  “We provide essential support, advice and care to children and adults with learning disabilities, along with their families and carers. We do this through a range of activities including the Hawthorn Specialist Playroom for families with very young children with special needs, social groups for children and young adults, sibling support, school holiday play schemes and parent and carer support groups. We make a difference because we work with families at any point along their journey, not only improving the life experience of the person with a learning disability but recognising the impact on the whole family and providing support, guidance and practical help.”   

Want to know more about the charity’s impact in Leeds? – you can read more here about their Impact for children and families in Leeds or about how they’ve helped Lora, Ben and Phoenix and other families they support.   

To find out how to make a donation to the cinema event, please contact [email protected] or call 0113 2351331.

Feature photograph provided by Leeds Mencap.

 

                                                  

 

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