The Mid-Atlantic Wellness Institute has celebrated the anniversary of its Community and Intellectual Disability Team with a special event at Warwick Parish council Field.

The Fête of Exceptionalities, on Saturday, brought together those with intellectual disabilities, their friends and family and members of the MWI team for a day of activities with soca music, games, treats and Gombeys.

Preston Swan, acting COO of the Bermuda Hospitals Board, said: “The success of the first year of this department has brought about necessary referrals for day programmes, client moves to residential group homes for respite or permanent stays, employment opportunities and weekly therapy sessions focused on various topics to support the daily lives of clients.

“Additionally, the team has been able to assist in emergency cases for other individuals needing substantial support, all while developing ties with multiple agencies on the island.”

Morissa Rogers, BHB clinical director of intellectual disabilities, added: “The main objectives of our Fête of Exceptionalities are to provide our clients the opportunity to celebrate themselves in a public setting and engage in meaningful social engagement with their peers and the wider community.

“Attendees had the opportunity to seek information from our resource tent about the CIDT and other organisations that provide services to this community.”

Christopher Cunningham, Clinical Manager of CIDT, hoped the event would help lay the groundwork for further community events and additional inclusion for those with disabilities.

“Inclusion is necessary and important, especially if we want to continue reducing the stigmas around mental health and intellectual disability,” he added.

The event was carried out with the support of the Special Olympics, the K Margaret Carter Centre, New Dimensions Day Programmes, John Barritt and Sons Ltd, the Hiles family, the Client Empowerment Council and Tomorrow’s Voices, along with the Warwick Parish Council and the Royal Bermuda Regiment.