Leeds Got Talent show to boost morale after coronavirus lockdown

Many of the 284 members of the Leep1 group (Leeds People First) have had to shield during the coronavirus lockdown.

They have been keeping in touch via regular Zoom meetings and via the Leep1 Facebook group, which has offered daily activities including baking, keep fit and yoga sessions.

Leep1 member Sapphire Malcolm had the idea to arrange a talent show to coincide with Learning Disability Week from Monday June 15.

Sapphire thought the show would cheer people and help improve mental health.

People in Action, a Leeds charity which supports adults with learning disabilities and autism, is working with Leep1 to stage the online Leeds Got Talent show.

Beckie Hainsworth, assistant manager of Leep1, said adults with learning disabilities and autism are invited to email a video of themselves acting, singing or dancing to [email protected]

The show will be held online from 7pm on Friday June 19 on the Leep1 and People In Action Facebook groups.

Beckie said: "People are really excited and are looking forward to either taking part in or watching the contest after having such a tough time during lockdown."

The Leep1 group is based at Unity Business Centre on Roundhay Road in Leeds where members normally meet up at a cafe and take advantage of a day centre.

The group also runs monthly club nights for more than 200 adults with learning disabilities and autism at a Leeds nightclub.

It is hoping to get the club nights back up and running when permitted.