ARTWORK made by people with learning difficulties was given a new lease of life at a special exhibition.

Paintings, woodwork and pottery were put on display at the Dorchester Arts Centre in the county town to celebrate the work of those who are aided by the Dorset Learning Disability Service.

Senior support worker Kim Whitfield said there was a ‘very positive’ response to the event.

She said: “A number of members of the public who came in said the exhibition looked really professional and that they would consider buying some of the pieces. It was great.”

The items were made during art classes put on for the charity’s service users.

Kim added: “Some of the art was made especially for this exhibition, and some was made in classes months ago, so it was nice to have this opportunity to make the most of it.

“That was the whole idea behind this event.

“We have some really great stuff, and it seems a shame to have it lying about in the garage gathering dust.

“They also made some new pieces especially for this event.

“It’s the first time we have done anything like this and it gave us the chance to raise some money, and our profile, as well as allowing our users to see and comment on each other’s work.

“It’s definitely something we would consider doing again. It’s very exciting.”

The organisation is the Dorset arm of Leonard Cheshire Disability, a charity which fights for equality for disabled people and provides various support services.

Dorset Learning Disability Service runs nine residential homes and three supported living homes in the county.

Kim said: “Art classes are something we do for fun, and they are all run by volunteers.

“It’s really popular with our residents, and the level of their work shows how capable and interested they are.”

A raffle was also held to raise money for the service, with prizes donated by local businesses.

The charity is appealing for volunteers with any skills relating to arts or crafts to run classes.

For more information, contact volunteer co-ordinator Angie Yeomans on 01305 213815.

Realistic environment for youngsters’ life skills

YOUNGSTERS with learning difficulties are set to benefit from a new scheme bridging the gap between children’s and adults’ services.

The project, the Disabled Equipment Centre (DEC) was planned by occupational therapist Tracey Brown and aims to improve life skills and make the transition between different services easier.

Tracey said: “The DEC is a real living space, like a one-bedroom flat, so that young people can learn life skills in a realistic environment.

“They can vacuum, make the bed, clean the bathroom, tidy the lounge, do the ironing and set the table for meals.

“It is also somewhere they can come regularly and meet with social workers, occupational therapists, nurses and others involved in their care.”

The project is based at the Disabled Education Centre in Sturminster Newton.

Olive Hull, whose son Jordan, 17, was one of the first to use the facility, said: “This is ideal. Every parent wants their child to become an independent adult, but Jordan needs assistance in developing the necessary skills.

“This is a vital step for him and it has come at exactly the right time.”