As many disabled people struggle with the demands of their disabilities, the first thing to get lost is often a sense of self, wellbeing and place in their community. Many disabled people feel that they have to give up work, a vital community for many and this can add to real feelings of isolation. They may stop meeting friends and neighbours, attending groups or local activities. Equally, they may never have had many existing community connections, either by choice or circumstance. For these individuals, particular support may be needed to enable this happen at their pace. Disabled people can feel embarrassed about joining/ re-joining groups or asking for their help at a time when they may feel they have a smaller amount to offer back. However, encouraging disabled people to take part in local activities which reflect past or new interests and hobbies is likely to have a long-term benefit for the individual and the community itself. Sometimes, disabled people can be lacking in confidence and therefore may need support and encouragement to engage with or reconnect with resources. This could be as simple as accompanying  to a group or activity for the first time. Taking a regular break from health appointments or treatment can make the difference between being able to continue having treatment and having to give up.

Care giver can be defined as someone of any age who provides unpaid or paid support to family, friends or clients who could not manage without this help. This could be caring for a friend, family or client member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support. Carers and people with disabilities need communities and communities need them. This quest aims to give you, an overview of ways in which your practice can strengthen these ties and why this can lead to better outcomes for all.