News & Events

This year’s focus for Learning disability week will be ‘Do you see me?’ to highlight importance of recognising and valuing people with learning disabilities and making them feel seen and heard as a person before their disability. The week is usually led by Mencap, which is a charity for people with learning disabilities, to promote inclusion, visibility, and respect. Adults with learning disabilities may be more susceptible to being physically and emotionally abused or neglected, discriminated against, and financially exploited. This week challenges the stigma for those with learning disability and respects their right and independence. To learn more about Mencap and how to get involved visit Learning Disability Week | Mencap.

Each year, thousands of elder individuals are abused, neglected, and exploited all around the world. This day is celebrated globally and aims to raise awareness of the abuse and neglect experienced by older people and encourages the community to be more vigilant about the care provided, ensuring it encompasses dignity and respect. Awareness around this can help prevent elder abuse, creating a safer environment for everyone. The acronym WEAAD (standing for World Elderly Abuse Awareness Day) was created by the International Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse (INPEA) IN 2006. People often wear purple clothing to signify unity and support for WEAAD. To read more please visit World Elder Abuse Awareness Day | 15 June.

Carers week is an annual campaign dedicated to raising awareness around the vital contributions of carers to families and communities. The theme this year is ‘Caring About Equality’ which emphasises the need for an equal society where carers are truly valued, recognised and supported. Their mental health is just as important as those they care for, and this week highlights the support available for carers both professional and unpaid. Many carers are responsible for providing care for adults at an increased risk of abuse, neglect, or exploitation. Supporting carers is essential for safeguarding adults as carers are on the front line of oversight if they suspect abuse or neglect. For more information, please visit Home | Carers Week. Additionally, in support of this week, there will be planned activities around Islington detailed in the Islington Life Magazine.

World Schizophrenia Day is observed annually on May 24th, which aims to raise awareness about schizophrenia, and challenge the stigma around it and promote understanding of this complex mental health condition.  It is important to protect individuals living with schizophrenia, who may be more vulnerable to neglect, discrimination, or abuse, especially if their symptoms affect their ability to communicate or advocate for themselves. It encourages a rights-based approach to the care provided for those affected, and supports them to live in safe, respectful environments where their voices get heard, and their needs are effectively met. Read more about Schizophrenia on Rethink Mental Health service The truth about schizophrenia.

Dementia Action Week is a national campaign led by the Alzheimer’s Society which aims to increase awareness and inspire action to support people with dementia. The week emphasizes the importance of protecting people with dementia from risks such as neglect, abuse, or exploitation, particularly as they may have trouble in communicating, correctly recalling events, or recognising harmful situations. It also encourages professionals and communities to create a safer, more supportive environment where individuals with dementia are treated with dignity, respect, and compassion, with their rights being actively protected. To find out more about resources for Dementia, please visit Dementia Action Week | Alzheimer's Society.