Maldon Pioneers

About the Club

The 'Pioneers' are people with a mild to moderate learning disability, they are either living at home with parents or independently in their own accommodation.

A separate organisation is necessary because there are a number of people who do not go to the training centre for people with learning disabilities because their disability was not accessed as being severe enough. These people are unable to participate in normal community activities enjoyed by most of us, as a result they tend to be isolated and over dependant on immediate family.

Why are they called Pioneers?

When the name was first used it was to signify that they were doing activities that were new to them - in fact, pioneering into new territory. The name is as applicable today as it was in the 1980s.

How do you join?

Most people join through social services, a typical pioneer is someone who has gone through a special school or perhaps a special needs group.

What do Pioneers do?

Many activities have been used over the years, the aim is to enable the Pioneers to gain social skills by participating in 'normal' situations where they can learn skills through being with their friends and coping with new experiences.

There are various outings throughout the year such as:

• Places of interest
• Pub
• Bowls
• Local shows

In term time Pioneers can attend basic education classes at the Friary Adult Education College, the association also runs a weekly social/education group.

In June there is a one week holiday and seven weekly outings are arranged, transport is provided.

Currently there are about 40 Pioneers, we are always looking for more members and young volunteers.

For more information please email the chairman or secretary