Redbridge’s Disability Awareness Festival returns to Christ Church Green this month. There will be information stalls, activities for people of all abilities… and a Freddie Mercury tribute act, says Sophie Donelan
The London Borough of Redbridge, in collaboration with its partners, One Place East, Vision, Uniting Friends and Redbridge Forum, will host the annual Disability Awareness Festival on Christ Church Green this month. This is the first face-to-face disability awareness festival since 2019, and the theme this year is ‘back to life, back to reality’.
The festival is a special occasion offering people the opportunity to participate in activities that are accessible to everyone, with or without a disability, as well as the chance to take part in a positive community event that can enhance their sense of well-being. This event is open to the wider Redbridge community and beyond.
We aim to provide a unique opportunity for participants with disabilities to showcase their talents, helping to improve self-esteem and confidence as well as learning new skills or becoming more independent. This is a great chance to strengthen community links between residents and service users with disabilities.
On the main stage, there will be live music, dance and comedy performances throughout the day. There will also be outdoor games and activities, and the headliner will be a Freddie Mercury tribute act!
A variety of organisations and charities will focus on providing support and service information for individuals with disabilities on the day, and many people will be holding information sessions to consult and advise on options available so that those with a disability can become more independent. This is a family-friendly event, and there will be a wide range of workshops offered throughout the day, such as music, dancing, arts and crafts, sports and wellness.
Not only do we aim for this to be a fun event for all, but we also aim to improve both the mental and physical health of participants through accessible sports and links to health and well-being activities and services. Redbridge Council and its partners believe the health and well-being of residents, and having access to information, is of great importance, so there will be a chance for attendees to have health check-ups, including with the NHS Diabetes Prevention Programme.
There will also be local businesses selling a wide range of goods in our market area, and refreshments available from the food and drink village.
Please show your support and come along. We hope to see you there!
The Disability Awareness Festival will take place on Christ Church Green on 24 August from 12 noon to 5pm. For more information, visit wnstd.com/daf22
