Within Issue 111
Our summer issue is all about Communities.
Community means many things to many people, and it resonates differently for every individual. It can evolve over time and is diverse in its meaning. For some people community is defined geographically where people live in the same region, town or neighbourhood. In this type of community there is a sense of connection through a common history, where shared experiences such as local events and neighbourhood safety often bring people together.
Community can also embody a sense of belonging through an opportunity for shared interest or purpose and mutual support. It offers a context for shared identity or experience, ethnicity or religion.
Digital communities today offer opportunities to connect with people across geographical regions and in fact across the world, regardless of physical location. The digital age has its pitfalls and problems but for those communities who are ill or isolated and who can’t physically get together, the online community offers inclusion, friendship, opportunities to share knowledge, create music and art and connect with others.
People with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) are often said to exist on the margins of society and not always included in their communities. A healthy society is one that embraces a diverse tapestry of community that fosters inclusion and where everyone feels they belong.
We would love to hear your experiences of community and what communities mean to you through your articles and personal stories. We also welcome shorter items in different formats, including photo stories or even single images with captions. Hopefully, this broad theme inspires you to contribute to our Summer journal.
Send all contributions including items of news, reviews or relevant resources and events to info@pmldlink.org.uk by 16th June.
As always, the PMLD LINK’s team are happy to help at any stage – just get in touch.
Guest editors for this Summer issue: Maureen Philip, Bella Travis and Annie Fergusson
Our Guidelines for Writers and Sharing Photos are on the ‘Get Involved’ pages of our website https://www.pmldlink.org.uk/get-involved/
