By Mencap
We are pleased to share that Mencap recently took on 8 services that provide support for 21 people with a learning disability A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things. across Norfolk and Suffolk. The transfers were completed at a short notice from 2 service A service gives people what they need, like healthcare services that help people when they are ill, and support services that give people support. providers, with one being completed in October 2025 and one in January 2026.
For the people directly affected, this transition Transition means changing from one thing to another. Transition sometimes means things like when you change from having children's social care to adult social care. has been about making them feel secure, listened to, and supported during a period of change.
Putting people’s experience at the centre
As part of our new strategy, Mencap wants to grow the number of services it provides to people with a learning disability. The
local authorities
A local authority is another name for your local council. It is a group of people whose job is to look after the area where you live. Local authorities means more than one local authority.
for these eight services needed a trusted, stable
organisation
An organisation are a group of people who work together.
with the
experience
Experience is when you have learned or tried something before.
to step in quickly. With Mencap’s
financial
Financial means anything that is to do with money. It is used to describe how people, businesses, or governments get money and how they use it
security and strong track record across East Anglia, we were able to respond quickly to ensure people’s support continued without disruption.
What this means for people and the communities
- 21 people with a learning disability across Suffolk and Norfolk have continued receiving the support they rely on and deserve.
- 42 colleagues have joined Mencap from the previous providers, helping maintain trusted
relationships
Relationships are about the people in your life. You might have different types of relationships like friendships, family relationships, or a boyfriend or girlfriend.
and continuity of care. - Families have been closely involved Involved is being included in something or taking part in something. , with many already telling us they feel a positive difference.
- This transition strengthens the work we already do across East Anglia and deepens our partnership with local communities and councils.
The most meaningful feedback has come from the people and families directly involved:
| “We'd like to say a very big thank you for organising last night’s display, it was so nice to be invited along as family. It's already feeling very different to be under the Mencap umbrella!” - Family member of a person with a learning disability |
| “It feels like a breath of fresh air.” - Healthcare professional after a recent visit |
Looking ahead
We’re proud to have stepped in quickly and safely, and we remain committed to working in partnership with local authorities, families, and communities to ensure people with a learning disability can live the life they choose.
“At the heart of this transition are people, their lives, their relationships, and their right to feel secure and supported. We’re grateful to everyone who has worked with us to make this change positive, and we remain committed to providing high‑quality, person centred support across East Anglia.” - Jon Sparkes OBE - Chief Executive Mencap
