Big Night Out

Hi readers, Kerry and Emily here and this week, writing about the Big Night Out we went to a couple of weeks ago.

Those of you who’ve read our columns over the years may remember this is a bi-annual nightclubbing event for people with a learning disability in Dorset.  It’s sponsored by Suttles, and organised by our friends at People First Forum, a charity a bit like us!

The Big Night Out is a very popular event in lots of people’s calendars. This time we were at a new venue, as Cameo, where we used to go, has closed. It had taken a while to find a suitable replacement nightclub –which was the Old Fire Station in Bournemouth.

We went by train with friends from People First Dorset as usual, getting on in Weymouth or Dorchester. A slight challenge was SouthWestern trains overbooking wheelchair spaces, but we all worked to make it ok. There’s high spirits on the way there as everyone is excited!

What a fun night it was too. It was busy – probably least 400 people there – but just about right. Mm=y (Emily’s) partner Chris reckoned the venue was very good, even though it was smaller and the upstairs was closed. He liked having dance floor close to the bar, and good to see accessible toilets.

With loads of people happy and dancing, the DJ’s (who all have a learning disability) spinning discs, it made for a really lively, buzzing atmosphere. There was very tasty pizza for sale, but you could take your own food too.

It was a truly brilliant night, and even the journey home was fun. In fact, so much that we were crying with laughter all the way back!

Overall, another successful Big Night Out – thank you to everyone who helped make it happen.

The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff