Adaptability is key to ‘Livingness’ at Langdon
MACCABI GB and Langdon have a long and proud history of partnership — from Langdon participants taking part in the Maccabi GB Challenge Israel Tour, a trip to Israel for young people with mild to moderate learning disabilities, to holding weekly football training sessions — and lots more in between. The partnership was solidified in 2012 with the opening of the Langdon Maccabi House and the organisation becoming an affiliate of Maccabi GB.
Last March, Covid-19 shut down the world. Yet Langdon members’ need for support did not end. It continued then — and continues now — to provide vital services for Jewish young people and adults with learning disabilities.
In the past months, Langdon has had to adapt under extraordinary circumstances. “We went into a protective mode… You have to change your whole person, your whole outlook. We have done everything we possibly could to ensure our houses and members stayed safe,” says Langdon support team leader, Ellery FullerLedwidge.
It has also been essential to ensure Langdon members stayed connected to family and engaged with their community. Langdon’s activity programme has transformed to become virtual and, when possible, features Covid-safe in-person activities that promote everything from healthy eating to creativity to mindfulness, so members can live their best lives. Langdon calls this “Livingness” and it is the essence of what it provides for all its members and their families.
“The way Langdon staff have adapted since the beginning of Covid has been incredible, particularly the support staff, who have worked tirelessly to ensure each of our members is safe and able to handle the difficulties of lockdown and the pandemic,” says chairman Nigel Henry.
Beyond support of members, Langdon has had to adapt in other ways. Fundraising events have moved on to Zoom or taken place as at-home virtual events, such as Virtual Velo — a take on the annual Langdon Velo fundraising bike ride that allows anyone to fundraise for Langdon from their own backyard.
“We have had great success at continuing our fundraising activities to raise vital funds for Langdon services. It is crucial during this time to keep fundraising alive,” says Henry.
As restrictions begin to ease across the UK, Langdon is looking forward to hosting more in-person activities for members and more in-person fundraising events. It will continue to empower its members to live their very best lives independently and be their best, true selves; that’s what Livingness is about.