2023-07-31 10:38:28
Sculptor helps learning disabled adults develop their creativity
Sculptor and designer Jasna Sadic is using her professional and personal experience to teach arts and crafts classes at Hft’s Barnet supported living service, providing learning disabled adults with a valuable opportunity to express themselves.
Jasna has been running arts and crafts sessions at the learning disability charity’s service since 2021. As a qualified stonemason, sculptor and designer, she thought this voluntary position would be well-suited to her and would put her in a good position to help others develop their own sense of creativity.
Jasna is also a mother and full-time carer to her son who has a learning disability. She thought this would also make this role a good fit for her.
She says, “As the parent of a child with a learning disability, I felt this was the perfect position for me to make a difference with my knowledge of both the arts and special education needs.”
Each week, the class focuses on a new art topic, often relating to upcoming events and occasions, and incorporating inclusivity as much as possible.
Earlier this year, one of the group’s projects was to make bunting to celebrate King Charles’ Coronation. Using various patterns and accessories, they decorated each triangular flag to suit the royal occasion.
Jasna adds, “It was the perfect way for the people we support to get involved in the Coronation celebrations and brighten up their living space.”
Creative activities have proven benefits for learning disabled people, such as helping to focus the mind, enabling individuals to express their feelings, and often providing greater community inclusion depending on the chosen activity.
Recently, the class has been joined by one more volunteer to provide additional support to up to eight attendees.
Jasna concludes, “Running the arts and crafts sessions with Hft has been an invaluable experience. It’s a great opportunity to engage with learning disabled adults and teach them something new.”
If you are interested in volunteering with Hft, visit its website.
Notes to editors
For further information please phone 07500 224654 or email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
