Activities
Adopting a strengths-based approach allows us to remain person-centred, fostering a collaborative process that highlights the abilities of each individual and the resources within their support network. This approach focuses on integrating these strengths and assets into their community, creating opportunities for meaningful participation.
We provide an in-house service designed to prioritise and support individuals in pursuing their personal goals and aspirations. Through short, focused 1:1 sessions, our dedicated Support Workers engage in open conversations with service users to explore their ambitions and discuss realistic ways to achieve them.
Whether the goals are big or small, attainable or aspirational, they serve as a source of inspiration, encouraging progression and personal growth.
Our role is to empower individuals to look ahead, breaking down barriers that may make certain goals feel ‘off limits’ due to a disability. By fostering this forward-thinking mindset, we help service users envision the possibilities within their reach. Many of these goals often align with the diverse range of activities we offer at MCH, further motivating individuals to explore their strengths and abilities beyond traditional expectations. This approach not only inspires personal growth but also encourages creativity and confidence in achieving aspirations.
We provide a diverse range of activities designed to cater to the unique needs and interests of our service users. Internal activities include cookery and life skills, arts and crafts, sports, horticulture, performing arts, computer/iPad training, multi-sensory and desensitisation work, dancing, fitness sessions, and discussions centered on health, well-being, and healthy relationships.
We also welcome visits from specialized agencies such as Podiatry, the Learning Disability Team, and Healthy Cornwall to ensure holistic support. Our activities are dynamic and person-centred, constantly evolving to align with the goals and preferences of those who choose our day opportunities service. Whether indoors or outdoors, these experiences foster growth, engagement, and a sense of community.
Aligned with our contract with Cornwall Council and guided by our strengths-based approach, we ensure that all service users have regular opportunities to engage with and access resources within the local community. From enjoying activities at the leisure centre to attending a partnership board meeting or scoring strikes at the bowling centre, these experiences help foster independence, confidence, and meaningful engagement.
We empower individuals by giving them the opportunity to voice their preferences and choose their destinations and activities. This approach has led to a wide range of enriching experiences, including visits to local churches, libraries, museums, shops, swimming sessions, Halloween discos, sports events, and connections with other services, which help strengthen friendships and community links.
We also enjoy outdoor activities such as clay and forest walks or trips to the beach, offering engaging ways to explore nature. One example of our person-centred approach involved supporting a service user with a passion for photography. We organised a group trip to the poppy fields near Newquay, which they found to be a truly memorable experience. The keen photographer is now compiling the photos from the trip to create their own calendar—a project inspired by their creativity and initiative.
Additionally, our group outings often include lunch out, where individuals are encouraged to order their own food and drink, go to the counter, and pay independently. These experiences are especially effective in building confidence and promoting independence, creating opportunities for personal growth in everyday situations.
At MCH, we actively collaborate with other agencies to ensure service users are involved and represented. We regularly participate in the Learning Disability Partnership Board alongside members of our group, with 5 or 6 individuals typically attending each meeting. The discussions cover a wide range of topics, and attendees consistently express appreciation for having a platform to share their thoughts and feel genuinely heard. It’s a highlight for many, with frequent excitement about upcoming meetings. Our strong ties with Cornwall Council and the use of resources like Health Watch Cornwall further strengthen our efforts, which we proudly promote within the group.
Additionally, we advocate for healthy living through our healthy eating scheme. Fresh fruit is readily available with a 'help yourself' policy, encouraging independence and healthy choices. We also support individuals who are able to prepare their own hot drinks, often inspiring them to extend this by making drinks for their friends and peers. This fosters independence, confidence, and a sense of community among those we support.