Traditionally day services have been provided by Social Services at a centre called an Adult Day Centre.  Originally, such centres provided a safe environment for adults with a learning disability who took part in a range of activities, including some contracted work.  Centres have evolved over years and now provide a full programme of activities to include life skills, further education (literacy, numeracy, communication, ICT etc), leisure activities, community activities and also work placements. In addition, a number of other organisations in the area provide a range of services and opportunities.

If you are the carer of a young person who is due to leave school then Social Services should already be involved in helping you to plan the transition from school to adult day services, adult education or work opportunities or training.  (Education Act 1993)

A newcomer to the area needs to request an assessment as all access to Day Centre placements is through Social Services.  For an assessment contact:

 
Day Services  

The following is a list of some of the Day Services currently offered in Hambleton and Richmondshire.  Transport is often available to these centres.  Check with your Care Manager. 

There is a wide choice of activities on offer within the Centre, including drama therapy, music, football training, dance, music and movement, relaxation, cookery and adult literacy, speech therapy and physiotherapy are also available.

The service users are encouraged to integrate into the wider community where they can, for example, go swimming and horse riding. 

There is a work placement officer who sets up work placements locally for those who are interested in work opportunities and developing their skills.

Service for people who live in the Dales are on offer to people in Richmond and the Dales.  This project offers a wide range of activities and opportunities both within the Centre and within the community.

Ashtree Arts was originally developed from an idea based on a group art activity at Ashlands.  Those that participate produce paintings and cards of a high quality for sale.  All paintings and cards are original and individually packed in the studio. Outlets are in Thirsk, Richmond, Yarm and Northallerton.  (Ashtree Arts will soon be moving to Northdale, see below.)

This is run by a voluntary organisation affiliated to MENCAP.  Their philosophy is to encourage and enable their members to achieve their full potential and to give everyone as much opportunity as possible for integration into the community.

Each member has an individual life plan, which shows their strengths, as well as a short and long-term plan to develop skills.

Activities are varied and include integrated leisure, drama therapy, numeracy, literacy and independent living skills.  Some members attend a college of further education or evening classes and others have work experience placements.

United Response is a voluntary organisation which aims to support people with learning disabilities in a work environment, a recreational pursuit, with an educational aim or at home.  They aim to utilise community resources and situations thus enabling people to be part of their community and to have the opportunity to lead fulfilled and worthwhile lives.  The Old Boot Shop provides a retail outlet for a wide variety of crafts, produced on the premises.  A variety of work experience and voluntary work is also available.

WORK

Northdale provides training and work experience in horticulture and woodwork.  Goods produced are retailed at various outlets.  Northdale Horticulture provides Garden landscaping and garden maintenance across the area.

Packing and chopping sticks for supermarkets, garages etc.   Deliver to private homes.   Gardening is also available.

Manufactures and sells toys and other goods, involving its workers with learning disabilities in all aspects of the commercial operation. Aims to develop self and social awareness, pride, dignity and confidence.