The Activity and Wellbeing Service, which provides essential support for adults with learning disabilities, has successfully settled into its new location at Saltburn Children’s Centre following its move from Tuned In in November 2024.
The team delivers personalised care and support and promotes independence, wellbeing, and choice through a diverse timetable of activities tailored to individual needs. The service currently supports 22 adults through a range of structured sessions, including:
- Computer groups – offering both recreation and opportunities to develop digital skills.
- Total communication sessions – teaching Makaton signing alongside speech and visual symbols.
- Drama sessions – preparing a themed concert incorporating total communication.
- Workforce group – developing practical and social skills for everyday life.
- Hydrotherapy at Redcar Hospital – Supporting physical and emotional wellbeing.
- Outings – Encouraging independence and teaching valuable life skills and enjoyment.
- Arts and crafts sessions – Encouraging creativity and self-expression.
The new building has provided enhanced facilities to better support adults, including a sensory room, activity room, dining area, computer room, functional kitchen, and accessible bathrooms. The team has also built strong connections with local schools and organisations.
One of the dedicated support workers at the service, Amanda Mazzey, from Redcar, shared her inspiring career journey. Having spent over 20 years in Business Administration, Amanda made the decision in her late 40s to follow her true passion—supporting people. She undertook further education, gained new qualifications, and in 2021, successfully applied for a Support Assistant role with the Council’s Activity and Wellbeing Service.
Amanda is now a Support Worker. She said: “I love my job. It’s a massive privilege to work with the adults here and be part of such a dedicated team. Every day is a joy, and the reward comes from the smallest things—seeing someone smile, learn a new skill, or grow in independence.”
She also praised the training opportunities and supportive team environment that have helped her grow in her role:
“During my time here, I’ve been able to complete relevant training courses to expand my knowledge and skills. I’ve also received unwavering support and guidance from my line manager and wider team, which has been invaluable.”
Peter Spence is one of the residents who uses their services, and his mother, Joyce Spence, has praised the team, noticing how beneficial this service and the new location is for her son: “He’s been a lot happier since he has been at Saltburn. He loves going on the bus. He smiles when he gets home, and he keeps having fits of the giggles. He is enjoying being at Saltburn better than Tuned In. I think it’s because it’s more homely. Other families I have spoken to have said they enjoy it also. Definitely been a good move.”
Cllr Lisa Robson, Cabinet Member for Adults said: “The Activity and Wellbeing Service plays a vital role in empowering adults with learning disabilities, helping them gain confidence, independence, and essential life skills. The move to Saltburn Children’s Centre has provided a fantastic space for this invaluable service to grow, and it’s wonderful to see the positive impact it’s having on our staff and service users.”
With a continued commitment to enhancing the lives of those they support, the Activity and Wellbeing Service remains focused on developing new activities and fostering an inclusive, engaging environment for all.