Certitude: creating a future where people with learning disabilities and mental health needs are valued as equals and are in control – parts of the UK

From their website: ‘Certitude’s person-centred approach is creating a future where people with learning disabilities and mental health needs have the same opportunities and rights to a good life as everyone else.  This means being valued as equals and being in control. Ultimately, this is what all of us want.

‘We listen to the people we support about how they want to spend their time and help them achieve it. We find out what people have to offer and help them develop it. This is a partnership and we are in this together.

‘For people with learning disabilities or mental health needs – and for their carers and families – our support comes in many forms. From essential round the clock support to independent living in the community; from training and mentoring to build skills and confidence, to support in finding fulfilling and reasonably paid employment. And we provide our own opportunities through apprenticeships, work placement and volunteering roles. We encourage people to find new interests, make new friends, get out and about and have fun. For carers and families, we offer respite care and short breaks. We also work closely with local authorities, communities and others involved in delivering support.

‘We recognise the barriers that stand in the way of the people we support and we are resourceful in our efforts to work with people to overcome them. We don’t work to a formula – we find new and better ways of doing things, we don’t judge and we never give up, even when the going gets tough.

‘We see ourselves as partners and allies – working alongside people, carers and families. And ultimately, we measure our success on the happiness and richness of the lives people lead.’

Go to their website: http://www.certitude.org.uk/