I’m a Student, I’m an Employee, and I Have a Learning Disability
- The Adventure Service
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Last month, we proudly celebrated Learning Disability Week 2026, an annual awareness campaign organised by Mencap. While the official week took place in June, for us at Adventure Services, the celebration does not end when the week is over.
Every day, we see our Adventurers developing skills and achieving goals that matter to them. Their stories remind us that learning disabilities are just one part of who a person is. They are students, employees, friends, family members, and active members of their communities.
As we continue to celebrate and champion inclusion beyond Learning Disability Week, we wanted to shine a spotlight on some of our Adventurers and their experiences. Today we will hear from Broadie and Jonathan. We asked them about themselves and here is what they had to say.
Meet Broadie
Q: So, tell us about yourself!
A: “My name is Brodie, I’m 20 years old and I’m with my family. I spend time with them all the time… my step-dad, mum and my three brothers. I live in in Nottinghamshire. I like dancing, I like my music, and I like being with friends and family.”
Q: Can you tell us about your Learning Disability?
A: “Different. I think only a few people have got it. It does have a name, but it’s a bit long! 16p Microdeletion. I think it’s a bit like Autism.”
Q: I understand you study and work? Tell us about that!
A: “I started a college recently. One day – Functional Skills and Bistro. Then at the college I do kitchen work, and a Gardening Team at a local Park.”
Q: What about your communication style?
A: “A bit calm – and sometimes hyper.”
Q: What advice would you give someone with a Learning Disability?
A: “Go out and do stuff. Be with your friends and family.”
Meet Jonathan
Q: Tell us about yourself!
A: My name is Jonathan, I’m 22, I live in Nottinghamshire and I like my step-dad, Mum, Gareth and Hugo. Gareth is my step-dad, Hugo is my dog. I’m interested in going on my X-Box and hanging-out with friends.”
Q: Can you tell us about your Learning Disability?
A: “I have ADHD, Dyspraxia, Anxiety and one I got tested for, I forgot what it’s called, it’s like a hidden disability, I think it’s to do with co-ordination.”
Q: Tell us about where you study and work.
A: “I study at a College. I do Bistro, like, we cook stuff, and Employability Skills. I work at Asda on the Bakery – on the shop-front, not actually in the Bakery. I put out cakes and stuff!”
Q: How would you describe your communication style?
A: “Calm, clear and presentable.”
Q: What advice would you give to others with a Learning Disability?
A: “If you have a Learning Disability, it doesn’t change who you are, and it doesn’t affect how people like you or not, you’re just a human!”
Celebrating Every Day
A huge thank you to Brodie and Jonathan for sharing their experiences and reminding us all that learning disabilities do not define a person - their personalities, passions, talents, and aspirations do.
As Learning Disability Week 2026 may have taken place last month, its message remains just as important today. At Adventure Services, we are committed to continuing those conversations, celebrating the accomplishments of our Adventurers, and promoting understanding and inclusion every day of the year.
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