Learning disability nursing delegates attempt world record at Positive Choices conference

A Guinness World Record attempt for the most people in one room signing in Makaton (communicating via signs and symbols) ‘Hello, my name is’ was one of the highlights of this year’s Positive Choices conference.

There were about 500 delegates, learning disability students, nurses and academics registered at the event which was held at Birmingham City University last week.

Keynote speakers

England’s chief nursing officer Ruth May and Paula McGowan, a campaigner for mandatory training in learning disabilities and autism for all health and social care professionals and mother of Oliver McGowan, who died in 2016, were among the keynote speakers.

Among those entertaining the audience were drama and singing group MiXiT – which includes people with learning disabilities and people without – who presented a pertinent, but funny performance based on the story of one person with learning disabilities and sepsis; the Makaton Choir and members of Time2Shine (known as the Shiners), a group of young people from Cornwall.

Learning Disability Practice has compiled a video that captures some of the vibrant atmosphere. Watch it here