We have managed to make a small profit from the past few months of Big Lunch. After a vote, it was agreed that the Christmas Big Lunch would be free for anyone who wanted to come along. We will also make a food and cash donation to the West Lothian Foodbank to help people in need.

Our Annual Staff Survey came out in August and we were delighted by the positive responses. Comments included;

New Directions seems to be remaining strong despite the challenges in Social Care

I have a sense of being valued and belonging

I feel valued at work because my contributions as my contributions are appreciated by my team and leaders.

As always, there are areas for improvement and we will plan for that.

In Scotland people who have a Learning Disability are much more likely to experience poor health than other people. This includes heart disease, diabetes and being very overweight . They also face barriers to healthcare such as difficulties with transport to get to appointments and healthcare professionals not understanding the needs of people with a learning disability. An annual health check is offered to people with a learning disability at their G.P. practice. You can find out more here

Congratulations to Daniel who passed his driving test last week at his first attempt. This will give him so much more independence and the freedom travel on his own terms.

The Ups and Downs Theatre Group , who are based in Hamilton, have been given a Pride of Britain award and our very own Skye was thrilled to show us all her medal.