Focusing on abilities rather than disabilities, Side by Side gives adults with learning difficulties the opportunity to develop and demonstrate their unique talents. Our inclusive approach allows sharing of skills, develops confidence and assertiveness skills, whilst drawing out previously undiscovered talents.

Side by Side has progressed in line with evidence from research that promotes the very essence of what it means to be a valued member of the community. Being an accepted part of a community is an expectation of most people but it is not too long ago that if you were born with a learning disability the most you could accept was a hospital bed for life. That aside people join Side by Side as they have seen or heard about our great shows, and stay because they love to perform and its great fun.

Side by Side develops skills, especially listening, acting, taking instruction. Being a part of large group itself needs a number of skills like turn taking and having personal responsibly for your behaviour. All the skills learnt at Side by Side are transferrable to other areas of life at home and at work. Participating in Side by Side builds a positive image to the wider community of the fulfilled lives that people with learning disabilities are capable of,resulting in the building of respect