History of FLAG.

FLAG was founded by the John Grooms Lifestyle Choices Project, who supported disabled adults into educational or leisure activities. The Bedford based Lifestyle Choices staff recognised a lack of social events in Bedfordshire and encouraged a group of volunteers and service users to form an independent organisation to fill the void, thus FLAG was launched in April 2006 with a start up £5000 "Awards for All" Grant from the National Lottery.

Although FLAG was an independent, user-led voluntary organisation, with its own committee, bank account and constitution; it retained strong links with Grooms. FLAG volunteers worked out of their office and most of its members were referrals from the project. Unfortunately, due to a lack of funding, the charity closed its Bedford office in August 2011.

FLAG continued and now operates out of a hired room at Priory Methodist Church, Bedford.

Need for FLAG.

The people accessing our services are disadvantaged by means of disability, which in many cases results in social isolation, poverty and boredom.

The three main barriers to social inclusion faced by disabled adults are transport, support and low income. FLAG solves all these problems by providing transport and volunteer support at subsidised events.

Outcomes.

FLAG is a user-led group, it is run by disabled people for disabled people. Ideas for events come from the members themselves. We also keep in contact with our members with a regular quarterly newsletter.

As well as enjoying a day out many of our members have made new friends and carry on their friendships outside of FLAG. They have also gained the experience and confidence to become more confidence.