A look back on 2023 - 2024
People are building stronger communities
In June, people from our Stronger Communities group joined together with other local organisations to take part in Pride Cymru’s parade.
The group met with representatives from Innovate Trust, Gig Buddies Cymru, Cardiff People First, Drive Wales, and the drag collective House of Deviant.
Everyone was thrilled when they were offered a spot right at the front of the parade, which meant they featured prominently in news coverage after the event.
Stronger Communities group volunteer, Annaliese even got to meet and pose for a photo with the First Minister of Wales, Mark Drakeford.
The atmosphere was filled with excitement as our group marched, danced, clapped, and cheered their way through the streets of Cardiff. It was a day of fun, connection, and celebration, and everyone loved every minute of it.
“We felt so proud and really loved walking and dancing to the drummers through the streets of Cardiff with our friends. We felt included and part of the group.”
“We felt so proud and really loved walking and dancing to the drummers through the streets of Cardiff with our friends. We felt included and part of the group.”
“Walking with the crowd made me feel good inside. Let’s keep raising our voices all over the world to show that whether you’re gay, bi, lesbian, or like myself - a guy who is gay and with a disability - you are loved no matter what. I will never forget this experience.”
People are supporting others
People in Ystradgynlais collaborated with organisations to bring Christmas cheer to the community. For the second year running, they organised a free Christmas toy market.
Our Community Development and Volunteering Lead, Jade Flynn, called on Mirus staff, friends, family, and local businesses to donate toys, children’s clothes, and baby items. The response was overwhelming, with generous contributions making the event truly special.
Mirus staff, Berian (who is supported by Mirus), and Emma and Bri from the Community Centre worked together to collect and organise the donations. “There were so many toys and clothes we had to replenish the stock multiple times,” Jade shared.
The toy market opened on 6th December, welcoming a steady stream of parents throughout the day. Visitors chose as many items as they needed and enjoyed a free lunch, selection boxes, and cinema tickets to see The Polar Express.
Berian, who volunteered at the event, raised £55 for the Community Centre’s upcoming ‘warm space’ by selling raffle tickets for a family pass to the pantomime Snow White.
A visitor shared how her washing machine breaking down had forced her to spend her Christmas savings on repairs, and she was relieved to find the Toy Market on Facebook. Another young mother expressed gratitude that the community was there to support her when she needed it most.
"We were happy to play a small part in bringing the community together at Christmas."
“I enjoyed chatting with visitors and hearing stories of how happy the children would be on Christmas morning when they opened their presents. ”
People are improving their wellbeing
Across Mirus, the people we support told us through our Better Together process that learning how to improve their health and wellbeing is very important.
We organised a Health & Wellbeing Festival at Margam Park, Neath Port Talbot, funded by the National Lottery Community Fund, in response to feedback from our Better Together sessions. 158 people highlighted a need for more support with health and wellbeing.
The festival was a collaborative effort, with contributions from organisations like Learning Disability Wales, whose Gig Buddies project promoted mental health through social connections. Everyone worked together to share accessible information and offer interactive activities aimed at promoting healthier, happier lives.
People explored exhibition stands for advice on health topics and joined in activities such as Agility Dance, fitness sessions with Fitness Unique, a comedy show by Juliette Burton, and a performance by Corneli Primary School Choir. The event created a lively, positive atmosphere, encouraging people to connect, learn, and have fun. Feedback on the day showed attendees valued the variety of stands, social opportunities, and practical advice.
Results were impactful: 87% of people who attended planned to improve their health, with 44% aiming to eat healthier. People committed to actions like exercising more, reducing sugary drinks and alcohol, and sharing advice on eye health.
Mirus representatives Alex and Rachel shared the festival’s outcomes at the Learning Disability Wales Conference, where mental health and wellbeing were identified as key priorities for the Welsh Government. The event not only inspired positive change but also highlighted the ongoing need for support and resources.
“I loved meeting and talking to new people. The interactive stands were really fun, and I learned a lot about healthier living.
“It’s great to be supporting Mirus at their event. We know people with a learning disability often face worse health outcomes than others, and it’s not right—so much can be done to change that, and we’re behind it.
87% of people said they were going to take action as a result of attending
100% of people said they know more about their health and wellbeing after attending the festival
People are raising awareness
In April, the people we support led the way in celebrating World Autism Acceptance Week, raising awareness of autism and funds for the National Autistic Society.
Across Wales, people organised and participated in a range of activities, showcasing their creativity and commitment to promoting acceptance and understanding.
In Brecon, a coffee morning brought the community together over sweet treats and drinks, raising £53. In Cardiff, the Stronger Communities group planned a week of events, including meals out, wellness sessions, bowling, and a walk with lunch at Victoria Park. They also joined a litter-picking event to support Keep Canton Tidy, proudly wearing bright colours and National Autistic Society t-shirts, alongside banners designed by people supported at the Cardiff Better Together event. Their efforts sparked meaningful conversations about autism and raised £60 for the National Autistic Society.
People also shared their experiences through videos, offering powerful insights into autism. Adam, a Mirus Representative in Bridgend, highlighted his strengths, describing autism as “like an ability.” Rhys, supported in Gwent, explained, “Autism is not necessarily a disability. It’s a manner of thinking.”
In the lead up to the week, Mirus joined the Neurodivergent Friendly Cardiff event, advocating for inclusivity and exploring ways to make Cardiff more accessible for neurodivergent people. We are invested in working with others to build a society that works for autistic people, ensuring that everyone can access the support they need to lead fulfilling, active and happy lives.
Thanks to the enthusiasm and dedication of everyone involved, £353 was raised for the National Autistic Society.
“Autism is not necessarily a disability. It’s a manner of thinking as far as I’m concerned.”
“Autism is sometimes like an ability – people have their own special skills.”
“We joined community events that brought people together, sparking conversations and building connections."
People are volunteering their time
Michelle has always been keen to give back to her community, so she began looking for volunteering opportunities in Cardiff.
Michelle’s Support Worker, Kirsty, suggested Cardiff Dogs Home on Penarth Road, knowing it would be perfect for Michelle, who loves being outdoors and has a special fondness for dogs.
After learning more about the role, Michelle applied and was soon invited to visit the centre to meet some of the dogs she would be walking. “I wasn’t nervous about going,” she shared. “I was just really excited to meet the dogs and new people.”
On her first day, Michelle had an induction where she learned how to safely walk the dogs and staff provided her with a yellow jacket to identify her as a dog walker. During her visit, she met a lovely pug named Ethel, who had just had a litter of puppies—Michelle fell in love with them all immediately.
Michelle now walks the dogs at Cardiff Dogs Home as often as she can, accompanied by one of her Support Workers. She enjoys being able to help, knowing there aren’t enough volunteer dog walkers, so not all the dogs get to go out every day. “Volunteering at Cardiff Dogs Home is great,” she said.
“All the dogs are really well behaved, and there have been lots of really happy times. I love being outdoors and getting exercise, so dog walking means that I can help animals and other people at the same time as doing something I enjoy.”
“I like all animals, but I had dogs of my own when I was growing up with my family, and that’s what made me love them most. They are so friendly and loyal, and walking them is the second best thing to having one of my own.”
Together we are celebrating achievements
Each year we celebrate the incredible achievements of our staff and people supported by Mirus at our Mirus Stars Awards Ceremony.
The Mirus Stars Awards ceremony is a fantastic opportunity for everyone to get dressed up, enjoy some fun entertainment and delicious food, and celebrate everyone’s achievements.
Throughout the year, people from across Mirus nominate people who live our values: Together, Respectful, Responsible, Empowering, and Courageous. Monthly winners, known as “Mirus Moments” winners, receive a gift voucher, digital certificate, and a shout-out on social media. These monthly winners then go on to become semi-finalists for our Mirus Stars Awards in November.
2023’s ceremony, held at Brangwyn Hall in Swansea, celebrated the dedication and hard work of our community, with over 151 nominations. From these, 21 outstanding finalists were chosen, and our Board of Trustees had the tough job of selecting just five winners. The night was filled with appreciation as each nominee was honoured for their positive impact on Mirus and the wider community.
"I love going to the Mirus Stars Awards - cheering on the people you know, and getting dressed up and dancing with your friends is so much fun."
"The Mirus Stars Awards celebrate the incredible achievements of both our staff and the people we support, highlighting their contributions, experiences, and the positive impact they have within our communities."
2023 Winners
