Saracen Care has been utilising Open Future Learning, an online learning provider dedicated to learning disabilities content. Side by side modules are used so that the people we support can learn a wide range of topics that can help navigate and understand life skills and situations.

Saracen Care recently delivered another group wellbeing session for the people we support, bringing together returning participants alongside an expert by lived experience from our team to explore the module ‘Looking After my Mental Health Part 3’. Familiarity with the session format helped create a safe and relaxed environment, with shared interests quickly building rapport and connection.

The session explored more serious themes than previous workshops, and facilitators responded flexibly by introducing a mid-session positivity break. Participants reflected on positive changes they had made since the last session, including eating healthier breakfasts, increasing vegetable intake through home cooking, and trying new forms of exercise.

Discussions around mental wellbeing encouraged participants to identify people and situations that negatively impact them, reinforcing awareness of boundaries and self-care. A sensitive conversation was also facilitated in response to a distressing news story raised by a participant, focusing on staying safe and seeking support when exposed to traumatic events.

A new concept, “spoon theory”, was introduced to help participants understand and manage their energy levels. The idea was enthusiastically received, with the group agreeing to focus on balancing their energy ahead of the next session.

The session closed with strong agreement that the group should continue meeting monthly, with participants helping shape future topics. One attendee described the sessions as a space to explore “trauma, trivia and joy” — reflecting the open, supportive ethos Saracen Care strives to create.