Will This Christmas Be My First Time Clubbing Like Everyone Else?

Dylan Hughes, a 23-year-old with Down's Syndrome, has found his place on the dance floor in Treforest, Rhondda Cynon Taf, where an inclusive nightclub event caters to young adults with learning disabilities. This initiative allows individuals like Dylan to enjoy a safe, vibrant atmosphere while expressing themselves through dance, something that has been difficult for him to find in Cardiff.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

In a significant step towards inclusivity, a new nightclub event tailored for individuals with learning disabilities has been launched in Treforest. Organised by sisters Sian Perez and Katrina Morris, this initiative aims to provide a safe and enjoyable environment where attendees can experience the joys of nightlife without fear of judgement. The event features all the elements of a traditional club, including music, dancing, and refreshments, but with a focus on accessibility and safety.

Key takeaways

Dylan Hughes, 23, with Down's Syndrome, has found joy in a new inclusive nightclub event.
The event, organised in Treforest, aims to provide a safe space for neurodivergent individuals.
Staff members are easily identifiable, ensuring attendees feel secure and supported.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the inception of the idea, the journey has been swift. The event was conceptualised in late 2022 when Dylan expressed his desire for a safe nightclub experience. In December 2022, the first Christmas-themed event was successfully held, marking the beginning of what the organisers hope will be a regular series of inclusive nights out. The collaboration with the Crwban supported living service has been crucial in realising this vision.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The launch of the inclusive nightclub event represents a notable development in creating social opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities. Attendees can now enjoy an authentic nightclub experience tailored to their needs, complete with staff support and communication aids.

What was already established

Prior to this initiative, many young adults with learning disabilities struggled to find safe social spaces. There were reports of isolation and limited opportunities for socialisation in traditional nightclub settings, highlighting the need for more inclusive solutions.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

This event is significant not only for the individuals attending but also for their families. Parents like Victoria Hughes express relief and happiness knowing their children have a safe space to enjoy themselves, alleviating concerns about their wellbeing in public settings.

Businesses and jobs

The event has created job opportunities within the community, from support staff to event coordinators, further integrating individuals with learning disabilities into the workforce. This model could inspire similar initiatives across the UK, promoting inclusivity in social settings.

Policy and regulation

The success of this event may prompt local authorities and organisations to review and enhance accessibility policies in nightlife venues. Support for such initiatives could lead to more inclusive regulations in public entertainment spaces, fostering a broader societal change.

Numbers that matter

1: The number of inclusive nightclub events held so far, with plans for more in the future.
23: Age of Dylan Hughes, representing a demographic often overlooked in nightlife planning.
27: Age of Declan, another attendee, highlighting the diversity of ages among participants.
5: The number of staff members present to ensure attendees feel supported during the event.
100%: The aim for inclusivity, ensuring no one feels left out in this vibrant setting.

Definitions and jargon buster

Down's Syndrome: A genetic disorder caused by the presence of an extra chromosome 21, leading to developmental delays and physical disabilities.
Neurodivergent: A term used to describe individuals whose neurological development and functioning are atypical, often including conditions like autism and ADHD.
Supported living service: A service that helps individuals with disabilities live independently in the community, providing support tailored to their needs.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, the organisers will assess the success of the first event, gathering feedback from attendees and their families to improve future events. They aim to establish a regular schedule for inclusive nights out.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Within six months, the hope is to expand the event's reach, possibly collaborating with other local venues to host similar nights. This could lead to the creation of a broader network of inclusive social opportunities for young adults across Wales.

Signals to watch

Attendance numbers at future events, indicating community interest and need.
Feedback from participants and families about their experiences and suggestions for improvement.
Engagement from local businesses and authorities in supporting such inclusive initiatives.

Practical guidance

Do

Encourage local businesses to consider inclusivity in their services.
Support initiatives that promote socialisation among individuals with learning disabilities.
Engage with community organisations to raise awareness about the importance of inclusive social events.

Don’t

Don't overlook the needs of neurodivergent individuals when planning events.
Don’t assume all individuals with learning disabilities have the same needs; consider varied requirements.
Don’t hesitate to provide support resources to help attendees communicate their needs.

Checklist

Research local support services for planning inclusive events.
Gather feedback from potential participants before launching new initiatives.
Ensure staff are trained to support diverse needs effectively.
Establish clear communication channels for attendees to express their preferences.
Promote events widely to reach those who may benefit from them.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While the event has been well-received, there are still uncertainties regarding long-term sustainability. Continued funding and community support will be crucial in ensuring these initiatives can thrive. Additionally, while the event is designed to be inclusive, individual responses to social situations may vary, and ongoing assessment will be necessary to adapt to attendees' needs.

Bottom line

The launch of the inclusive nightclub event in Treforest marks a significant step forward in providing social opportunities for individuals with learning disabilities. It highlights the importance of safe spaces where everyone can enjoy nightlife experiences. Continued support and community engagement will be essential to expand such initiatives, ensuring that nights out become commonplace for all.

FAQs

What is the purpose of the inclusive nightclub event?

The inclusive nightclub event aims to provide a safe and enjoyable space for individuals with learning disabilities to experience nightlife, promoting socialisation and self-expression.

Who organised the event?

The event was organised by Sian Perez and Katrina Morris, who run a supported living service for neurodivergent individuals.

What features does the event include?

The event includes elements typical of a nightclub, such as a DJ, dance floor, mocktails, and support staff, all tailored to meet the needs of attendees.