South Downs day out for adults with learning disabilities

Adults with learning disabilities are being given the confidence to explore the South Downs thanks to a joint project between the South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA) and Brighton & Hove charity the Grace Eyre Foundation.

On Sunday 24 February seven people with a variety of learning disabilities walked 4km from Ditchling Beacon to Stanmer Park to help create a film that others can use to explore the South Downs National Park.

Amanda Elmes, lead for Learning and Outreach at the South Downs National Park Authority, said:

“We want to inspire everyone to access and enjoy the health and wellbeing benefits of being out in the South Downs. I hope that the Grace Eyre group’s experiences will raise awareness and encourage similar groups to explore the National Park.”

Hala Exander, a Grace Eyre service user, said:

“I’m so happy because everybody came. I had a very good time.”

The expedition demonstrated an easy way to access the National Park by bus, with the group taking Brighton&Hove Breeze buses to and from the walk. UK National Park sponsors, Merrell, kindly donated walking boots which the Grace Eyre Foundation will use as pool kit as many of their clients do not have access to suitable footwear.

The day was filmed by Brighton Film School and this will be made available online to provide a resource for similar groups and service providers across the South Downs National Park.

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