Our very first 'Give it a Go' event took place on Thursday 10th August at Biggin Hall in Dover. After building the group up on Facebook for a few months, and then partnering with local organisations; Future Foundry, Dover Pride and Ceramic Art Dover, we got planning for our first-ever in-person event.
The 'Give it a Go' idea came about after struggling to find accessible activities, classes and events locally. I wanted it to be a way that local groups and organisations could work with an alternative audience to better tailor their classes, activities and sessions for those with a wide array of challenges, from being in a wheelchair, all the way through to having struggles with understanding instructions. The events will also raise awareness of what services are available around Kent, where to get help and support, and will mean more disabled people are able to engage with what's going on in their local community.
After working with Lisa from Future Foundry, Biggin Hall became our number-one choice for venues to hold the event. I spent some of the lead-up advising on best ways to make the venue more accessible. It was fantastic to be heard, and Lisa was instrumental in ensuring the access was suitable by getting their ramp smoothed off, the tables were the right height using elephant legs, the stage was accessible using a portable ramp, and helping to ensure the tables were in the right place to ensure participants could easily get around them with walking aids or on wheels.
SO, HOW DID THE EVENT GO?
The event began with a welcome and introduction from me on the stage at Biggin Hall. It was scary but everyone clapped and smiled after.
After my speech, everyone spread out for the different activities, badge making, clay play and ceramics and tote bag decorating.
Then we had a break to run an accessible self-defence session with Nikki Fair of Savage Martial Arts. She showed everyone how to deal with someone verbally or physically attacking us, and how to defend ourselves when using a walking aid, wheelchair or when seated outside. It was very informative, and everybody loved punching the pads.
Then, we broke for lunch. It was really nice because we all sat around a long table and chatted as we ate. It really brought about a real feeling of support and community. Some people had to head off after lunch to save on spoons (spoon theory), but others wanted to finish their masterpieces.
The feedback from the event was very positive, and there were some great suggestions for future events and activities, which will all be considered. I am really looking forward to the next event, which is currently being planned for the group. The aim is to run it in October. Watch this space for further details.
A huge thank you to the event funders; Arts Council England, Dover Community Association, partners; Future Foundry, Ceramic Art Dover, Dover Pride and Savage Martial Arts, our fantastic team of helpers; Rainna Erbas, Emma Sikora, Michelle Dawson, Amelia Johnson and Casey Brett and to everyone who took part.
Words by Michelle Stannard
