Celebrating Learning Disability Week 2026

Learning Disability Week 2026 took place from 15 to 21 June, with this year’s theme, “Do You See Me?”, encouraging everyone to recognise, listen to and value people with a learning disability for who they are and what they bring to their communities. 

At Community Lives, we marked the week by celebrating the many community events, projects and activities that bring people together across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. It was a week filled with connection, friendship, laughter and powerful reminders of the importance of inclusive community life. 

One of the highlights of the week was a special session at our Better Together Choir. Together, people reflected on disability and ability, sharing the things they are good at, the qualities that make them unique, and the many ways they contribute to the people and places around them. 

The session was uplifting and full of warmth. It captured the heart of Learning Disability Week by reminding us that everyone deserves to be seen for their strengths, talents, personality and potential. 

A Community Lives quiz brought everyone together for plenty of fun, friendly competition and laughter, with some very worthy winners celebrated at the end. 

There was also a lovely surprise at our coffee morning at Caewern Community Centre in Neath, when the High Sheriff of West Glamorgan, Emrys Elias OBE, popped in to say hello as part of his visits during Learning Disability Week. 

Once everyone discovered who he was, the room quickly got chatting. During the visit, he shared that he had called bingo as a young man at Coney Beach. Naturally, he was invited to step up once again — and for the rest of his stay, he called the bingo numbers for the coffee morning. 

The moment brought plenty of smiles and laughter, and it was a wonderful example of how simple conversations and shared experiences can create real connection. 

Following his visit, the High Sheriff shared a kind message online about the warm welcome he received and the vibrant, inclusive atmosphere at the coffee morning. He praised the dedication of staff, volunteers and partner organisations, and highlighted the importance of supporting people to live independent, connected and fulfilling lives within their own communities. 

He also recognised the work of Community Lives, Your Voice Advocacy, Neath Port Talbot CVS, Neath Port Talbot Council and wider partners who continue to work together through forums and community networks to share best practice and strengthen support for people with learning disabilities and vulnerable adults. 

Learning Disability Week gave us an opportunity to celebrate people’s voices, abilities, friendships and achievements. From singing together and reflecting on what makes each person unique, to welcoming visitors, enjoying a lively game of bingo and taking part in an accessible community quiz, the week showed the strength and joy of inclusive communities. 

Thank you to everyone who took part, supported the events and helped make Learning Disability Week 2026 such a positive celebration. We look forward to continuing this work every week of the year — making sure people are seen, heard, included and valued.