A social group for people with learning and physical disabilities has moved to much bigger premises.

The success of Mark’s Activity Programme Service, run by Mark
Spurgeon, means that the group in Deal has outgrown the Telegraph pub where it formerly met and has now moved to The Alma in West Street.

MAPS provides social activities from discos to bingo sessions at locations across Kent for people with a variety of disabilities.

Mr Spurgeon said the move is a positive change which will give members the opportunity to integrate more thoroughly with other people at the pub. He added: “Not only is this a bigger space but they could also sit in the pub and play darts, it was total integration.

“They could take part in activities and they could make their own drinks. Everyone was positive about the move and we had 50 people attending, which was a great turn-out.”

Members had their first session at the premises last week and Mr
Spurgeon said it was a great success with members playing a variety of games and making new friends.

He added: “It’s getting them out there and giving them opportunities. I think it’s really made a difference in Deal.

“People are getting more involved and I feel like we’ve really found something here that no one else seems to be doing.

“It’s great to get the group going to new places and changing the ideas of disability.”

Mr Spurgeon is looking for more members to join one of the groups and hopes to reach more and more people that are looking for support and social interaction with like-minded people and the wider community.