The Discovery Festival

Chelmsford City Council and ecdp (Essex Coalition of Disabled People) are once again running  The Discovery Festival which will run from Monday 25th to Saturday 30th November at various locations across Chelmsford, with the majority of activities taking place in High Chelmer and Chelmsford Library.

The event is in recognition of, and will build up to, the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPwD) which is acknowledged each year on 3 December. Celebrated globally, the IDPwD aims to promote a positive image of people with disabilities through celebrating their achievements and providing an understanding of disability issues. This year’s theme is ‘Break barriers, open doors: for an inclusive society for all’ and that is exactly what The Discovery Festival will be doing through a series of exciting and engaging activities.

The diverse programme features a range of activities such as performances from local disability dance groups including wheelchair dancing, music, workshops and sporting activities. There will also be a range of organisations present to provide advice regarding disability services in the local area.

The event provides an excellent arena for those living with a disability to gain information on services available, to try new activities and to develop confidence through hearing the achievements of other disabled people. For those who are not disabled, The Discovery Festival enables participants to gain an insight into some of the difficulties that need to be overcome when living with a disability and to develop a greater understanding and awareness of different disabilities.

Fir details of activities taking place each day visit the website www.chelmsford.gov.uk/discoveryfestival