Mencap

Mencap Supporting people with a learning disability to live their lives to the fullđź’ś

"It's all such a big change, and he'll have to adapt to new routines, new teachers and new classrooms.” For many parents...
02/09/2026

"It's all such a big change, and he'll have to adapt to new routines, new teachers and new classrooms.”

For many parents and carers of children with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND), going back to school can come with very different feelings and experiences.

You might feel relief at the return of a routine, or maybe you feel worry about what SEND support will be available and how your family will cope with change ?

We want to know what going back to school means for you and your family.

Have your say on education and inclusion to help shape our work on education. Link in comments.

We’re excited to introduce this year’s Mencap Marvels. 16 incredible student swimmers aged 11 to 16 are taking on the ...
28/08/2026

We’re excited to introduce this year’s Mencap Marvels.

16 incredible student swimmers aged 11 to 16 are taking on the English Channel Relay for Mencap.

This is the 9th year of the Mencap Marvels supporting Mencap. And every stroke and splash supports people with a learning disability and their families.

Jon Sparkes, Mencap’s Chief Executive Officer says: “We want to wish our incredible Mencap Marvel 2026 swimmers the very best of luck as they prepare to take on the English Channel Relay Swim for Mencap this year.”

“The commitment, determination and team spirit they have shown has been truly inspiring.”

Find out more and support our Mencap Marvel heroes with the link in comments.

27/08/2026

A lot has changed for people with a learning disability in the last 80 years since Mencap was founded.

But there is still some confusion around what having a learning disability actually means.

There are different types of learning disability that range from mild, moderate, severe, and profound. This means that the level of support with things like communication, personal care and learning new things is different for every individual with a learning disability.

With the right support, people with a learning disability can live life to the full, which is what Mencap has always worked for, and always will.

Find out more about what learning disability means with our Easy Read. Link in comments.

A huge congratulations to Finya Lang, who completed her solo English Channel swim in 12 hours and 8 minutes.Finya swam f...
21/08/2026

A huge congratulations to Finya Lang, who completed her solo English Channel swim in 12 hours and 8 minutes.

Finya swam from Samphire Hoe in Kent to La Sirène in France, raising over £8,000 to support Mencap’s Family Engagement Programme, which provides inclusive swimming lessons for young children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Her achievement feels even more special, as 2026 marks 100 years since Gertrude Ederle became the first woman to swim the English Channel.

Well done, Finya. We’re all so proud of you 👏

Help Finya reach her fundraising goal. Link in comments.

20/08/2026

Did you know our Learning Disability Helpline offers free benefits advice for people with a learning disability, and people who live with someone with a learning disability?

Our team can help you understand your options and support you with your application.

You can contact us through the link in our bio and comments.

For 80 years, people like you have supported Mencap to work towards a world where people with a learning disability can ...
19/08/2026

For 80 years, people like you have supported Mencap to work towards a world where people with a learning disability can live life to the full.

We think that’s kinda chic. 💗

Find out more about us. Link in comments

18/08/2026

We love to see it.

Prime Minister .burnham has announced that, from 1 April 2027, disabled bus pass holders in England will be able to travel for free at any time of day.

At the moment, disabled people's bus passes only work during specific times in most parts of England.

This is a great step towards creating equal opportunities.

Jon Sparkes OBE, Chief Executive said “Disabled people should have the same opportunities as anyone else to work or contribute to society in some other way and this will help level that playing field.”

Read Our No Journey Left Behind research, funded by the , for more recommendations and ways to make public transport accessible.

Video description: The video shows Prime Minister Andy Burnham in a dark suit talking to the camera. Subtitles appear in the middle of the screen and the headline reads: "Andy Burnham announces free bus travel for people with a learning disability"

Link in comments.

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) help people with a learning disability with the extra costs they face day to day.But...
18/08/2026

Personal Independence Payment (PIP) help people with a learning disability with the extra costs they face day to day.

But the latest Timms Review found that for many, the PIP assessment process can be stressful, dehumanising and difficult to navigate.

Jane, whose son James relies on PIP says says: "I have always filled in the forms alone and have sourced the supporting information and the process is exhausting and soul destroying."

If you have a learning disability and have experience of PIP, you can help shape what happens next.

The Timms Review is holding online and face to face workshops to hear what needs to change and help shape its recommendations for the future of PIP.

Register your interest by Friday 21 August. Link in comments.

17/08/2026

Are you in?

The Learning Disability Register is a list held by your GP surgery. It helps doctors and nurses know how to support people with a learning disability get the healthcare they deserve.

Nurse Shelby knows from experience how this additional support can make all the difference, She shares how important it is for anyone over the age of 14 to join the Learning Disability Register.

If you need help asking your GP to add you to the register, our letter building tool can help you. Link in comments.

14/08/2026

When makes this documentary, we’ll have the popcorn ready.

Will you be tuning in?🍿

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