First Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities internal conference explores ‘Autonomy, Belonging & Connections’
On Thursday 8 October, team members from across the organisation came together for our first Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) internal conference. The theme of the day, Autonomy, Belonging & Connections, created opportunities for learning, discussion, networking and practical action.
Held at Hartsfield Manor in Surrey, the interactive event explored how we can strengthen autonomy, belonging, communication and meaningful relationships for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Through internal and external speakers sharing practical approaches, lived experiences and examples of best practice, attendees explored how we can continue to provide outstanding, person-centred support.
The day began with a welcome and opening remarks from Erren Wheatland, Head of Health and Clinical Governance, who set the scene for the conference and reflected on the importance of autonomy, belonging and connection for people with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Attendees then heard a keynote presentation from Director of Wellbeing, Strategy & Collaboration, Michael Fullerton, who introduced the ABCs of Autonomy, Belonging and Connection.
Sheridan Forster joined virtually from Australia to deliver a talk on the Hanging Out Programme (HOP). The programme encourages support workers to spend 10 minutes giving a person their full attention. Developed with people with profound and multiple learning disabilities in mind, HOP promotes interaction as a core part of disability support work and helps ensure people have opportunities for meaningful connection every day.
Members of Us in a Bus were up next, discussing the important topic of Intensive Interaction and maximising engagement. This well-established approach supports people with profound and multiple learning disabilities to develop and make the most of their communication skills, helping them build meaningful connections with the world around them.
Following a networking lunch, Laurie Finn and Romulo Fernandez, Registered Managers of our residential homes at 287 and 290 Dyke Road in Brighton and Hove, delivered an insightful presentation on maximising communication and choice. They explored how adaptive technology, including switches that enable people to control doorbells and lights, can create new opportunities for communication and independence.
Crystal, a member of Campaign 4 Change, delivered a presentation on What Matters to Me and facilitated a workshop alongside Co-production Manager, Elmi Terjavjainen, on the Wheel of Engagement. The interactive discussion explored what people love about their lives, what is important to them, and the barriers that can prevent people from engaging in the activities and relationships that matter most. These insights will be used to adapt and improve the Wheel of Engagement.
Rachael Mossie, Registered Manager, and Donna Duggan, Deputy Manager, from Highfields and Valleyview, our residential homes in Derbyshire, delivered a presentation on achieving ‘Outstanding’ in their Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections. They shared examples of teamwork, dedication and person-centred approaches that contributed to their success, as well as the positive relationships they build with inspectors during the process. Drawing on their experiences, they discussed how feedback and recommendations from previous inspections helped shape continuous improvements, ultimately supporting both homes in achieving ‘Outstanding’.
Jake Shilson, Activity Coordinator at The Third Space, our hydro pool and community activity space in Brighton, discussed his approach to sensory storytelling. His sessions use recycled materials to create immersive sensory experiences that bring stories to life for the people he supports.
After a session led by Erren, exploring success stories and examples of best practice, the day concluded with reflections, commitments and next steps. There was a shared sense of purpose and commitment to helping the people we support live happy, healthy and meaningful lives.
Erren shared, “The conference brought together those with a shared passion for ensuring people with profound and multiple learning disabilities can live happy, healthy and meaningful lives. Throughout the day, we heard inspiring examples of how communication, connection and person-centred support can make a real difference. From sharing best practice to learning from lived experience, the conference reinforced the importance of working together to create opportunities for greater autonomy, belonging and meaningful engagement for the people we support. It was fantastic to see the enthusiasm and engagement from attendees throughout the day, and we look forward to building on these conversations at future events.”
Thank you to everyone who took the time to share their knowledge, experiences and expertise throughout the day.
To find out more about our support for adults with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities, visit the webpage.
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