In this Newsletter, we will be looking back at recent Gig Buddy events, sharing local news and activities, and letting you know about our future events which all of our Gig Buddies are welcome to come along to.

​We are also looking to recruit more Volunteers so if you would like to become part of the Gig Buddies community and share the many benefits of being a Volunteer, such as free tickets to events and improving your CV, please contact us if you or anyone you know would like to help adults in Portsmouth make new friends.

Aldingbourne Trust joins the global celebration of the #IWD2023 campaign #EmbraceEquity, which aims to get the world talking about why equal opportunities aren't enough and why true inclusion and belonging require equitable action! 

What's the difference between equality and equity, you ask? While the two terms are often used interchangeably, they have different meanings. Equality refers to treating everyone the same and providing equal opportunities. However, this approach assumes that everyone starts from the same place and has the exact same needs, which isn't true and demonstrates that more than 'equal opportunities' is needed. In contrast, equity ensures everyone has what they need to succeed, regardless of their starting point. It acknowledges that some people face additional barriers and need extra support to overcome them. With equity, we can truly reach equality!

We recognize that women and other marginalized groups face additional barriers and challenges that require equitable action to overcome. Our diverse workforce reflects our passion for social justice and commitment to equal opportunities for all, regardless of gender identity or expression. Only by working together can we create a world where everyone has equal opportunities to thrive and succeed.

Not just today but every day, give equity a warm embrace! Each of us has a responsibility to challenge gender stereotypes, call out discrimination, draw attention to bias, and seek out inclusion. How will you embrace equity?
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Written by Lizzie Williams

It was a week in February like we had never experienced before. We're calling it a 'week of dreams!' that saw us welcome over 3000 visitors to a Great Day Out in record-breaking style.

Families across the region flocked to the Country Centre to make the most of the holiday break, with planned activities to enjoy every single day. From our 'Meet and Greet' and goat grooming sessions with our farm animals, indoor cinema, aRTie the Aldingbourne Express, and a special members-only 'Stargazing Event'. 

One such visitor was Kelly Tormey, who had not long become an annual member of the Trust, "After recently moving to the area, we had heard some fantastic things about Aldingbourne Trust & it exceeded our expectations, so much so that we became members after our first visit."

Kelly was full of praise for the staff at the Trust, who went above and beyond to ensure that her family had a wonderful time. "Every staff member we came into contact with was so friendly and helpful, from the reception staff, to the cafe, the farm team, to the lovely man that organises the guinea pig snuggles! (My son's favourite experience that he hasn't stopped speaking about or watching the video of since we left). There is such a great selection of activities to keep you endlessly entertained!" Kelly exclaimed. "We're going to be making some of the best childhood memories here, I can tell!"

We are thrilled to hear such positive feedback from our visitors and are already looking forward to our 'Easter Eggcitement' events. If you haven't yet visited Aldingbourne Country Centre, why not join us for an Easter FULL of fun this April? And don't forget, every penny you spend goes directly to helping us support adults in our community with learning disabilities and/or autism. Thank YOU for making a difference! 

​Written by Lizzie Williams