ADULTS with learning disabilities are being given the chance to learn and pass on skills thanks to a new Kirklees community group.
Skills 4 U 2, a non-profit group, was set up in January.
From their base in Batley, volunteers help adults with learning disabilities to learn new art, drama and music skills.
They then train the adults how to teach these skills to other people at workshops held all over Kirklees.
It also allows the adults to hold their own social or arts gatherings.
Hilary Patel, a founder member of the group, has worked with people with learning disabilities for many years.
She said: "Myself and a group of other professionals knew there was a need in Kirklees for a service like this. So we formed the group with funding from the Kirklees People's Purse.
"We want to integrate people with learning disabilities into the community. We want people to realise that there is no reason to feel uncomfortable with people with learning disabilities."
There are currently 20 adults who attend Skills 4 U 2 sessions every Monday.
At the sessions, seven of the adults rehearse for their band Protobeat.
The band, assisted by a musician, tours schools and youth clubs in Kirklees and delivers music lessons to groups.
On July 1, Protobeat visited the Special Needs at Phoenix youth group in Holmfirth.
The band members taught young people with learning disabilities how to drum.
People at the sessions who are not in the band enjoy a range of classes including arts, crafts and DJ-ing.
For further information about Skills 4 U 2, contact Hilary Patel on 0793 9460 069 or email hilarypa tel@aol.com.
