AN IMAGINATIVE project to organise social events for adults with learning difficulties has been set up in North Somerset.

The idea of the scheme was thought up by Grace Ramsey, who has learning difficulties and type one diabetes, who felt there were too few opportunities for adults with additional needs to meet up and socialise in the district.

The 26-year-old from Clevedon has been working with her support workers, Natasha Woolley and Laura Miller, who work for United Response, to set up G&Co, a group dedicated to organising fun events, such as parties and days out.

Natasha, aged 20 from Portishead, said: “Grace wanted to set up her own events once a month so she and other adults with learning difficulties can get together and have fun.

“She wants to lead a normal life, meet friends and maybe a boyfriend, or just enjoy a drink and a night out.

“Although there are some opportunities to socialise at events organised by other groups, there is not enough as there could be.

“If this goes well they will have something to look forward to every month.

“Grace is amazing - she lives a very independent life.”

If G&Co is a success for Grace, she may with help, be able to set it up as a social enterprise not-for-profit company and expand into other areas of event management for people with learning difficulties to enjoy a greater social life.

Grace and Natasha plan to organise a different event every month and hope to get more adults with learning difficulties involved in the planning stage.

The first event will be a disco at Nailsea and Backwell Rugby Club in West End Lane, Nailsea, to be held from 7-11pm on June 10. Entry is �2. Proceeds will go toward funding future events.

The rugby club has allowed the venue to be used for free and Nailsea Musicals are providing the equipment for the two DJs Tim Price and Jamie Robinson.

Over the coming months, Natasha and Grace hope to source regular funding for the events and plan to get other agencies and groups involved in the scheme.

* To find out more about the disco or to get involved with the project email gnco_events@hotmail.com To find out more about the disco or to get involved with the project email gnco_events@hotmail.com