15 Jul Peabody’s summer festival returns for 2023
More than 400 people from across Essex gathered for a festival of equality, diversity, and inclusion, hosted by housing association Peabody.
The festival, near Braintree in Essex, was especially for the customers in Peabody’s care and support disability services. It was a celebration of diversity in all forms and coincided with Disability Pride Month.
Peabody joined forces with its customers to design and deliver the accessible event, which featured an array of fun activities and tasty food. There was something for everyone, and it showcased how people with a disability can be fully included in events.
Several acts appeared on stage, including an ABBA tribute band, a gospel choir, and a drag queen. They were joined by TikTok star, Javeno McLean, who led an inclusive fitness session. British Sign Language interpreters were at the side of the stage for each performance, ensuring all guests could enjoy the experience. Attendees also took part in arts and crafts, karaoke, and a silent disco.
All these activities are examples of the experiences and opportunities Peabody offers through its specialist care and support services for 300 people who have a disability. One resident, Stephen, said: “I’ve had a brilliant day! It’s been perfect. I’ve seen lots of my friends and met loads of people who I got to dance with. The food has been great. I especially loved the ice cream and coffee. We got to make bracelets and take souvenirs home. It’s been so good.”
Sue Allison, Head of Disability Services at Peabody, said: “Today was all about acceptance and embracing who we are. It was a loud, colourful, and wonderful celebration of every single person’s right to be themselves. I’m very proud of all our support workers who put on a brilliant day for the customers.”
Peabody is a leading provider of care and support services and specialist housing in the South. Its team of 1,200 support workers deliver tailored support for vulnerable people across London, Essex, Sussex, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Oxfordshire, and Cambridgeshire. By helping individuals identify and use their unique strengths and aspirations, the organisation accelerates their journey towards wellbeing, security, and independence.
As well as customers and colleagues from Peabody’s care and support teams several other people from the organisation were at the event, helping out through Peabody’s volunteering scheme. The ‘Peabody Promise’ gives employees up to 14 hours paid time off a year so they can volunteer in the community.
Stephen Burns, Executive Director Care and Support Housing & Inclusion at Peabody, said: “Thank you to all who attended the summer festival, it was fantastic to see everyone having so much fun. It shows that with the right support and environment, anyone can thrive.
“Equality, diversity, and inclusion isn’t just a theme – it’s an integral part of our philosophy. And it was great to be able to give people the opportunity to choose what food, acts, and activities they wanted to see.”
