The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A club that’s helped those with learning difficulties for 50 years is back after a two-and-a-half-year wait.
The Spalding Mencap Society were unsure if they’d be able to continue with The Gateway Club after the COVID pandemic due to a lack of volunteers.
But following a plea a number have come forward to help and it’s back for its first session since March 2020 on Friday, December 2.
The society provides support for people with a learning disability, in particular by the provision of help and support for them and their families, dependants and carers, and also provides facilities for the recreation or other leisure time occupation for people with learning disability.
‘Learning disability’ means any developmental disability of the mind and any associated condition howsoever caused and whether mild, moderate or severe.
The Gateway Club is a vital part of that with sessions held from 7pm-9pm at Broad Street Methodist Church on Fridays.
There’s a small fee for admission while you can drop in or only stay for part of the session.
The first session will be a gentle getting to know you introduction, with the Spalding Ukulele Orchestra booked for the second event on December 16.
A spokesman said: “Spalding Mencap Society is pleased to announce the relaunch of The Gateway Club.
“It is open to people aged 18 plus with learning disabilities and will give them the opportunity to socialise, take part in a variety of activities and to receive information appropriate to their needs, in a safe and secure environment.
“Volunteers will be available to support with these activities.
“All previous members who attended and any new people are more than welcome to join the group. Carers and/or family members are welcome to join us.
“In the meantime a new committee with updated policies and procedures has been formed with some old and lots of new faces.”
For further information on Spalding Mencap and The Gateway Club contact Wendy on 07946 052418 or email spaldingmencap@gmail.com
The AGM is 6pm on Monday, November 28 at Broad Street Methodist Church Hall.
