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“You’re not going to fully understand if something is working for someone with learning disabilities unless they are involved.”

- Farris, Support Worker and Co-production Lead

This Autumn, you can help more people find their voice and have a say in shaping the community they call home.

Adults with learning disabilities, autism and mental health support needs can feel ignored and overlooked.

Society isn’t set up for people who have learning disabilities or autism. It’s not fair. It can take extraordinary support to ensure people have their voices heard.

Here at Camphill Village Trust, co-production is at the heart of what we do. We believe that it is important to work collaboratively with the people we support, so they can help to shape the services we provide.  

Co-production is about working with people, not doing things for them. 

A group of eight adults stand together outdoors in front of a minibus and a hedge-lined background. Several people are wearing coats and jackets, and one person is using a walking stick. The group is gathered closely together on a paved area with a decorative pink pattern overlaid at the bottom of the image. The photo appears to have been taken during a group outing or trip.
A person wearing a white apron stands in a kitchen holding a large metal mixing bowl and whisk. The kitchen includes a cooker and extractor hood in the background. The person is wearing glasses and several pieces of jewellery, and is preparing food at a work surface in a bright, modern kitchen.

Before joining Camphill Village Trust 9 years ago, Michelle didn't have many opportunities to learn new skills.

She often felt frustrated and unhappy. 

“Now, I’m a totally different person, and that’s all because of the staff that have helped me; to bring me forwards, to make me happy.”

- Michelle, Community Member

‘Together Everyone Always’

Today, Michelle is much happier and feels supported in her community. She is an active member of the Camphill Village Trust co-production group in Stourbridge, who have named themselves the TEA group; this stands for ‘Together Everyone Always’. 

Every week, the TEA group get together to share their thoughts and discuss any changes they’d like to make in their community.  

Four adults stand together outdoors in a garden area with trees and a brick wall in the background. Decorative text at the top reads “The TEA Group”. Handwritten labels with arrows at the bottom point to each person and identify them as Christina, Francis, Michelle and Steven. The image appears to be introducing members of the group.
people working together in the garden at Ashfield Gardens, tending plants and sharing a gardening task in an outdoor community setting.

Every voice matters

There are many co-production opportunities, projects, events, and activities that people can get involved in. From helping to develop important resources and attending regional forums to campaigning for the rights of people with disabilities, the people we support can choose how they would like to participate and make a difference. 

Every voice matters, and when people are given the opportunity to be heard, they can help shape positive change in their communities. 

Our approach ensures that people don’t just receive our support – they influence how our communities are run. It’s about making sure every voice is heard.  

Being involved in co-production has given Michelle a sense of fulfilment in life. It’s a place for her to belong and it’s something that she takes a lot of pride in. 

 

The right to an extraordinary life

At Camphill Village Trust, we believe that everyone has the right to an extraordinary life - to feel valued, connected and able to make choices about their own future. 

Many people assume this work is funded through statutory funding. It isn't.

Every co-production group, every meeting, every opportunity for someone to have their voice heard is made possible because of supporters like you.

Your gift could help more people take part in co-production groups; influence the services they receive and gain the confidence to shape their own future.

Today Michelle's voice is helping shape the lives of others. With your support, many more people could discover that same confidence, purpose and sense of belonging.

A group of six adults pose together in front of a gold-and-black awards backdrop decorated with stars and stage curtains. Two people in the centre hold award trophies. The image is presented as a tilted photograph on a textured background. Text at the bottom reads: “The TEA Group celebrate their win at the Dudley Voices for Choices SAFTA Awards.”

So please donate today and help more people like Michelle live extraordinary lives.