Sheffield Mencap and Gateway is a completely independent, local charity formed in 1951 by the parents of children with learning disabilities. Our vision is that “all people with a learning disability and their carers in Sheffield are valued, included and respected so they can live fair, full and happy lives”. 

We are proud to be a values led organisation, and all of our services are built upon the following core values:

• Community
  We support people to become active members of their community.
• Independence
  We provide choice and opportunities to build skills for life.
• Wellbeing
  We promote better physical, mental and emotional health.
• Confidence
  We encourage people to believe in themselves and recognise their potential.
• Relationships
  We encourage people to believe in themselves and recognise their potential.

Our services

We have over 700 members and pride ourselves on providing lifelong support, from our inclusive baby group through to 1-2-1 support for elderly carers.

The ‘Activity Learning Hub’ (ALH) is our core service for adults. ALH supports over 900 individuals every day through a range of groups, including Gardening, Videography, and running our 'Mencafé'. Many groups lead to accredited awards.

Our health programmes support sustainable lifestyle change, and the 'Health Outcomes Service' collaborates with clinical and care professionals to reduce health inequalities.

We offer a range of evening and weekend groups for adults, including sports and ‘Gateway’ social clubs. Our community based 'Out and About' groups support members to enjoy social activities across Sheffield, building independence and encouraging integration.

Our children's groups support young people to make friends and have fun whilst developing communication, confidence and skills for life. Groups include performing arts, fitness and our TGIF! youth club.

Support for carers is personalised according to individual need. This can include social groups, wellbeing activities, workshops and dedicated individual emotional or practical support.

Our members needs are at the heart of our services, and we employ 'Community Connectors' from the learning disability community to facilitate consultation and co-production. We endeavour to reduce inequalities, change perceptions and ensure the learning disability community is a visible and valuable part of Sheffield.