Perth disability seminar to offer support and advice to residents

Lifeline services offering support to people across Perthshire will assemble for a drop-in event today.

The “Putting People First” session at Perth Concert Hall has been organised as part of Learning Disability Awareness Week.

Perth and Kinross Council, NHS Tayside will be joined by services and national groups including Down’s Syndrome Scotland and Pamis, the charity which works with people with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their families.

Local teenager Jamie Carstairs will also appear at the event ahead of his charity cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats to raise funds for the local branch of the children’s music charity YMPA.

Sixteen-year-old Jamie, who plays the tuba, said he wants to give all children the chance to learn a musical instrument.

Housing and health convener, councillor Dave Doogan, said: “I hope that people with a learning disability, their families and carers will come along to this event to see what support and resources are available to them and also to be inspired by the lives and achievements of others.

“It is really important that we raise awareness of issues related to living with a learning disability particularly the successes and opportunities.

“Everyone is welcome at the event, so I’m looking forward to a great turn out.”

Visitors to the event will also get the chance to learn about locally available services, community resources and meet staff who support people and their families to live full and happy lives.

The event, organised by the local authority, runs from 10am-12.30pm.