19 May 2025

Hinkley Point C Community Fund supports inclusive social events for adults with learning disabilities

An inspiring initiative breaking down barriers for adults with learning disabilities has received £10,000 from Hinkley Point C’s (HPC) Community Fund, administered by Somerset Community Foundation (SCF).

Since receiving funding, Loveable CIC has launched monthly social events in Bridgwater, beginning at Allstars Sports Bowl and now continuing at the Admirals Landing pub. In just 2 months, the project has connected 25 local people with learning disabilities, helping to reduce loneliness and isolation.

Research by Mencap shows that 82% of people with learning disabilities experience loneliness, with more than 1 in 10 leaving their homes just once a week or less.

“We’re not interested in creating separate spaces that further marginalise people with learning disabilities,” said Anoushka Cross, CEO and Founder of Loveable CIC.

“Our approach is fundamentally different – we believe true inclusion happens when people with learning disabilities become visible, valued participants in the places everyone else enjoys. The HPC Community Fund grant allows us to challenge outdated models of segregation and build a more cohesive Somerset where everyone belongs.”

“Too often people with disabilities or additional needs are seen purely through the scope of their support needs rather than as ordinary people who want to socialise and join in with community events, hang out with friends or find a romantic partner,” said Peter Stolze, Programmes Manager at SCF. “This is why groups such as Loveable are so important, to help people form friendships and connections away from more formal support services.”

The busier nightlife caused by the HPC development can put extra pressure on people with learning disabilities, who may already struggle with social situations. The Admirals Landing pub socials address this by providing a supportive entry point to community life, with the function room offering a less overwhelming environment that’s still a mainstream space.

A member from the social group said: “Loveable has made me feel free again. I love coming and seeing my friends and being a part of the Loveable family. It’s fun and happy and I hope that I can come to Loveable forever.”

Andrew Cockcroft, Head of Stakeholder Relations at Hinkley Point C, added: “It’s great to see another local group benefitting from the Hinkley Point C Community Fund. We’re thrilled to be supporting an organisation which is working hard to make Somerset an inclusive and welcoming place for all – that’s what our Fund is all about.”

For more information about Loveable’s innovative inclusion work, visit: https://loveable.org.uk/home/

About the HPC Community Fund:

The HPC Community Fund includes the Small Grants Programme which awards grants of up to £20,000, and the Open Grants Programme, for larger applications.

The funding is for groups working in local communities to address changes to people’s quality of life or to make the most of the opportunities created by Hinkley Point C. Visit www.hpcfunds.co.uk for more details. If you would like to discuss your project or idea please contact Amelia Thompson, Senior Programmes Manager: amelia.thompson@somersetcf.org.uk or call: 01749 344949.

The HPC Community Fund is part of a wider commitment of funding provided by EDF through Section 106 agreements. It is available for communities that are affected by the development of the new nuclear power station, to help promote their social, economic and environmental wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. Hundreds of projects have benefitted so far, and in total almost £15.5 million in grants have been awarded to date, including £9.6 million from the Fund managed by SCF.

About Somerset Community Foundation:

Somerset Community Foundation is a grant-making charity that helps build strong communities where everyone can thrive. They do this by funding local charities and facilitating local giving.

SCF provides simple, rewarding and impactful ways for donors to give locally, guided by research and their unrivalled local knowledge.

For small, local charities, community groups and social enterprises, they provide vital funding and support to help their organisations flourish. They provide over £4 million of funding to local groups every year.

By inspiring local giving and funding social action, they support local communities to drive change and realise their dreams.

Photo caption: Members of the Loveable social group at Allstars Sports Bowl in Bridgwater.