Scottish Learning Disability Week is a celebration of people with a learning disability, providing a platform to showcase their strengths, talents, and abilities. It also raises awareness of how they contribute to society, giving us space to break down barriers, challenge misconceptions, and nurture societies where they can be seen beyond their disability.
This year’s theme, “I am here… to be seen” recognises achievements, amplifies voices, and highlights the importance of creating communities where everyone can live the life they choose. To mark this important week, we’re sharing inspiring stories that showcase the incredible people we support and the passions that make them shine – just like Stefan!
Stefan is a person we support at one of our supported living homes in Scotland. He’s visually impaired and requires 1:1 support for daily living tasks, accessing the community, and participating in activities. With the support of his team, Stefan’s overcome barriers, so he can follow his passions and talents.
Finding opportunities
Recently, Stefan’s achieved amazing successes through his commitment to developing new skills and embracing opportunities at Camphill School in Aberdeen. When Stefan first joined us in 2021, he began attending a life skills class at this specialist school for people with a learning disability. He wanted to develop greater independence, build confidence, and learn practical skills. The course also provided opportunities for him to socialise with others and develop his communication.
With the support of our specialist team, Stefan continues to attend Camphill twice a week with enthusiasm and determination! During his sessions here, he’s uncovered new interests – and a hidden talent.
One of Stefan’s favourite subjects has been Media. He’s a valued member of Camphill’s media group and has even featured in several promotional videos! The programme has given him the opportunity to pursue his passion for music, where he’s truly excelled. And with our team’s support, it has opened opportunities to show the world his talents!
A star is born!
Discovering his love for music and a talent for singing was a turning point for Stefan – but also presented challenges when accessing his passion. As he’s visually impaired, he’s unable to read lyrics. But his team found ways to support him through this. They collaborated with the team at Camphill to help Stefan learn the songs in a different way.
He learns them from memory. By repeatedly playing songs and listening carefully to each verse, lyrics are broken down into smaller sections allowing Stefan to learn them at his own pace. At home, our team sing along with him, repeat difficult parts, and provide encouragement until he feels confident. This regular practice has helped him to remember the lyrics and confidently perform at Camphill!
Music is an important part of Stefan’s life and provides him with enjoyment, relaxation, and motivation. Singing his favourite songs keeps him engaged and enthusiastic. He’ll listen to songs all day long and, if he’s going out, he’ll take his personal CD player with him. So, he’s always got some upbeat tunes to make his days even more vibrant!
It has been a privilege to witness Stefan’s remarkable achievements. Stefan’s exceptional ability to memorise songs and express himself through singing reflects his dedication, resilience and natural talent. Stefan’s ability to memorise and perform songs so confidently highlights his remarkable abilities and serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved through dedication and passion.
Rachel Percival, Service Manager
By attending the media course at Camphill, Stefan’s explored a talent and found a passion that’s meaningful to him. And this talent hasn’t gone unnoticed! He was asked to participate in the opening song for our annual Voyage Care Excellence Awards in 2024. And this year, he also sang at a festival one of our other homes hosted in August. His support team were devoted to helping him prepare for his big festival debut! They dedicated time to rehearsing with him, helping him memorise lyrics through repetition, and providing positive encouragement.
Challenging perceptions
Being a part of the community at Camphill gives Stefan a real sense of purpose, belonging, and achievement. He’s found meaningful ways to express himself and has told our support team that it makes him feel good and important, knowing he’s contributing alongside others. Performing music has helped him build confidence in his abilities, provided opportunities to form friendships, and opened avenues for him to embrace something he enjoys.
Through the support of both Camphill and our specialist team, Stefan’s been empowered to develop his talents and enjoy an activity that brings him happiness. Our team encourages him to perform whenever opportunities arise and recognise music as an important part of his wellbeing, confidence, and identity. Because Stefan’s passion was seen and he was encouraged to pursue his talents, he’s now living a life that is truly meaningful to him.
In the future, Stefan would love the opportunity to perform at community events allowing him to further build his confidence and share his love of music with others.
Feeling inspired?
Why not read more good news about our specialist learning disability support in Scotland? Discover how we’re helping the people we support to be active members of their community!