On the 15th and 22nd of August, the Big Red Bloom – a new collaboration between Open Door, Transforming Care Partnership, and the LFC Foundation – kicks off a new programme of inclusion for young people with learning disabilities and/or autism and their families.

Delivering holistic support utilising creative and physical activities, The Big Red Bloom provides “information, advice, and safe spaces for young people, carers, and families to connect, share, and listen” said an LFC Foundation spokesperson.

Combining the offerings of both Open Door & the LFC Foundation, events will be hosted at the Bloom Building – the Wirral-based charity’s ground-breaking home where mental health support meets the worlds of arts and culture.

The first of the two Tuesdays celebrates creativity, including art, music, holistic activities, and Liverpool FC’s very own special guest – Mighty Red – making an appearance, with the following week focusing on inclusive sports such as Boccia and New Age Curling.

The Bloom Building – Open Door’s current home, bar, and event space.

Based in Birkenhead, Open Door delivers free mental health support for young people and adults, including peer mentoring and stress management courses.

Open Door’s founder and director, Lee Pennington, said: “It’s amazing to be able to work alongside LFC Foundation for the first time, we’re excited to be delivering such a unique, tailored programme for an area of need.”

“This collaboration is a great way for people to find out about our other support options, such as Bazaar, our CBT, mindfulness, and mentoring programme, and Mysa – our latest addition – an eating disorder support group.”

The two sessions at the Bloom Building take place from 10am-1pm, offering a taster of the activities and workshops the partnership will be offering over the next 12 months.