A study by the University of Winchester academics has identified the key requirements of people with learning disabilities in the New Forest.

Dr Rachel Harrison, senior lecturer in health and social care, and Dr Sarah Earthy, senior lecturer in community and health, were engaged by New Forest Mencap to establish how the charity could bolster its services.

Their approach included a series of interviews with individuals with learning disabilities throughout the forest and its surrounding areas. The study concluded that while acquiring new skills was appreciated, it was the opportunity to socialise and improve social skills that most people valued from New Forest Mencap's services.

The report stated that activities promoting confidence-building and relationship maintenance should be included in the group sessions organised by the charity. Moreover, maintaining support regarding daily life challenges was suggested as crucial for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their parents.

Some 38 per cent of the interviewees expressed the significance of having the chance to participate in paid employment or volunteer work. Such opportunities provided a structured routine and a broader social network. However, a significant barrier noted was the forest's insufficient public transport, which left many relying on parents for transportation to activity groups.

On days without a New Forest Mencap activity, most interviewees reported feeling bored at home. Addressing this issue, the report titled 'Engage, Listen, Act: How to Meet the Needs of People with Learning Disabilities in the New Forest and Surrounding Area' was presented at the University's West Downs Centre on March 27.

New Forest Mencap says it intends to employ the findings of this report to enhance its services and secure additional funding.

Rachel Harrison said: "Social networks are vital for everyone’s wellbeing, health and being able to live our best lives. People with learning disabilities have networks that are significantly smaller than the general population. Therefore, seeking out the voices of people with learning disabilities, who are seldom heard in life, in policy and in research is vital. 

"Being able to work with New Forest Mencap to provide them with the evidence they need to continue to offer and develop activities which create, maintain and promote social networks through a range of activities has been a real pleasure. Working together to learn from one another and to create and evidence positive social change is key to all our futures."