ALDAG Conquerors

Ashtead Learning Difficulties Action Group - a mouthful of a name, and the abbreviated 'ALDAG' doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, but it does explain the group's existence.

ALDAG members

ALDAG is an action group for people with learning difficulties in their late teens and twenties. This was started by a group of volunteers in Ashtead who recognised that action is needed to enable these people to have access to a life of independence with social activity and work. In order to achieve this, they are working on three projects: investigating future opportunities for supported living; developing work opportunities in a supported environment; and improving respite care. "In all these areas we are making contacts with Social Service departments and other agencies working in the field," says Chairman, Joyce Smith.

In the meantime, the Conqueror Club is a meeting place that was started three years ago for this age group. This takes place once a month for just under two hours a time. For some members it is the only social opportunity they have that is independent of their families. Two or three outings are organised a year. In May, they went on the London Eye and those who were able to do so, climbed St Stephen's tower and stood behind Big Ben as the hour struck!

"We would love to increase meetings to twice a month but our volunteers are overburdened and we probably could do with some special leadership which we can't afford" says Joyce.

They are grateful to friends and supporters who give their time, money, fundraising and awareness-support and have benefited from various collections. In the autumn they plan a musical and literary day and a quiz.

They are starting a half-yearly newsletter to keep people updated. If you would like to receive this, or find out more about ALDAG, please contact Joyce Smith (277986)

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See also Local Support - Ashtead Learning Difficulties Action Group etc.

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