Development Programme

ALDAG’s Development Programme is based on the priorities and needs of its members and their parents or carers. Some projects are organised and provided by ALDAG itself; in other instances, it acts as a facilitator seeking to develop projects with partners.

The first and most enduring projects established by ALDAG are its Conquerors Club and Summer Scheme. The former, now in its 11th year, is a social club for those aged 16ish to 30ish. It meets twice a month and has become a valued opportunity to make friends and socialise together in a manner so rarely available to those with learning difficulties. (Click here for Conquerors)

The Summer Scheme originated as a two-week daytime activity venture run by experienced professionals but this, at the request of members, has developed into a holiday away at specialist venues. This annual event has proved to be not only greatly enjoyed by the participants but also highly valued as a break by their parents and carers. Again, this has to be fully staffed and ALDAG has been greatly encouraged by monies given in support of these holidays by local authorities, Ashtead’s parish church St. George’s and, faithfully over many years, its supporters.

ALDAG’s first “partnered” project began in 2005 when, in conjunction with the Cherchefelle Housing Association, a house in Ashtead was leased from Mole Valley District Council into which three youg local men moved. Cherchefelle, and our members’ Support Workers, provide oversight as of course, being local, do the members’ parents. ALDAG has provided financial assistance and will continue to do so.

The three young men who have now left home are amongst the most able to strike out “on their own” in this manner. The majority of our members will need a higher degree of care and oversight in order to taste independent living and it is to these that ALDAG is now turning its attention.

In 2006, ALDAG established a link with Advocacy Partners who run a consultation service for young people with learning difficulties. This is designed to help identify needs, desires and choices in life by the adoption of a person centred planning system. The results are assisting in the devising of future projects and out of it has already grown the establishment of regular parents’ meetings. (click here for parents' forum)

Other and loftier ambitions include the desire to provide further supported living accommodation in Ashtead, the establishment of an employment project, the expansion of the Summer Scheme and a plan for the provision of breaks away from the family home in preparation for moving into independence. Supporters will recognise this last project – which is entitled Filling the Gap – as it was so close to being awarded major financial support in 2006.

12 years on from its formation, ALDAG sees only an increasing need for its activities, its influence and its role as a voice and sounding-board for parents with youngsters with learning difficulties. It intends to continue with and expand its work.