Children's and Learning Disabilities Division - BeDigital Week 2024

As part of BeDigital Week 2024, our Children’s and Learning Disabilities division is proud to showcase two groundbreaking digital initiatives: the launch of their Connect website and the Youth Recovery & Wellbeing College podcast series.

These projects highlight our commitment to improving accessibility and engagement for children, young people, people with learning disabilities, and their families.

The Connect website was developed to centralise service information and created specifically for young people and their families, making it easier to find and navigate. 

Historically, information about services for children and adults with learning disabilities existed across various platforms which created barriers for users.

• Over 17 adults with learning disabilities and 70 young people contributed, ensuring the website resonates with its audience.
  
  Their input shaped:
  • 28 animations with user-generated voiceovers and relatable characters
  • Building tours featuring engaging visuals and narration to prepare visitors for appointments
  • Key design decisions as participants in planning meetings and panels
    
    
• The site integrates video tours, accessibility information, and life-sized animated characters in Trust buildings to promote the site via QR codes.
  

The Connect website launched in October 2024, marking a milestone in delivering cohesive, user-friendly digital services in the division.

The Youth Recovery & Wellbeing College has expanded it’s digital reach with the podcast series, “On the Couch With…”, providing young people with engaging, accessible content to support their mental health.

Podcasts are hosted by Mez Sanders-Green, Senior Youth Recovery & Wellbeing Practitioner, the series collaborates with CAMHS, schools, and local hubs. Each episode features conversations with students, youth ambassadors, and Trust staff, exploring mental health, relationships, and lived experiences.

The podcast is available on the Trust’s YouTube channel and monthly episodes support the Youth Recovery & Wellbeing College’s digital platform, which also hosts creative sessions and personalised profiles for young people.

Through initiatives like Connect and the podcast series, our Children’s and Learning Disabilities colleagues are setting a new standard for digital engagement, ensuring that children, young people, people with learning disabilities, and their families can access the support they need in innovative and inclusive ways.