AVON HELLO TOMORROW FUND
Women with learning difficulties are too often stared at and treated differently because of their seemingly unfashionable clothes, dated hairstyles and ‘odd’ makeup. I would like to set up a project to teach them about these girly things, which the rest of us all take for granted, so that they become less isolated and more independent and confident in their daily lives.
Many women with learning disabilities can often be identified as different from the rest of society by their clothes which can be inappropriate and odd. Their hairstyles too are often old fashioned and very few know how to apply make-up or look after their skin. Their clothes are often bought for them by carers or older member of their families with little regard for style and fashion. In the worst case scenario their clothes are bought for them without them being present. Quite often tracksuits are the order of the day.
I hope to set up a series of workshops so that women with learning disabilities can meet and explore 'girly' things together. By offering these women exposure to fashion and beauty, and giving them the freedom to make their own choices, we will empower women to become independent and confident in making simple, everyday decisions about their lives. These women will grow in confidence and self-esteem; feeling part of mainstream society and not being stared at or marginalised.
Working with vulnerable women every day at the Herefordshire People’s Advocacy Trust, I know how much this simple project would help to massively improve their lives.