Safe Soulmates - Company Activities and Impact Safe Soulmates is a peer-led organisation that supports neurodivergent and disabled adults to reduce isolation and foster meaningful connections. Since 2018, it has provided social, training, and employment opportunities that help to promote belonging, purpose, and independence. Employment, Volunteering, and Route to Work Safe Soulmates employs 28 staff, including 12 Soulmates and 23 neurodivergent employees, with 32 volunteers also contributing with social events, social media, fundraising and technical help. Steering Group The Steering Group meets every six weeks to discuss projects, share updates, and involve Soulmates and staff in decision-making. Social Events, Community Connection throughout Cambridgeshire Safe Soulmates hosted over 200 Zoom events, 183 in-person gatherings, and an estimated 1,280 independent meet-ups also took place, helping to foster connection and reducing isolation in Ely, Huntingdon, Peterborough and Cambridge; we were also successful in a funding bid with Gr8Mates in Bedford, so social groups in St Neots will begin in 2025. Testimonials ‘It makes me feel happy to have things to do and to see friends. I am getting more confident about going out and trying new things.’ ‘Being part of the soulmates family really brightens up my life.’ ‘Really good, for example I’m a sports facilitator working alongside another soulmate & we host sport meet ups for our friends in the group to have fun whilst keeping fit too.’ ‘Yes, they influenced me a lot. Those are the only friendships and connections I have.’ ‘It has greatly decreased social anxiety & loneliness. I feel much more connected & confident than before.’ ‘LGBTQ+ online group has been incredibly important for him and the role plays and other online groups with Viv have been amazing too’ CPSL Mind Collaboration Safe Soulmates helped to adapt the Stop Suicide Training to address the heightened suicide risk among autistic individuals, creating lifesaving resources tailored to the neurodivergent community. This initiative provides vital support for those at increased risk. The Suicide policy was expertly animated by a soulmate. Safe and Inclusive Places Training Supported by National Lottery funding, this training equips hospitality, retail and travel staff with the knowledge to support neurodivergent customers and help them to understand reasonable adjustments that will help their customers. Delivered by trainers with lived experience, it promotes inclusive practices across these sectors. One to One and small group support Funding from Assura via the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Board has supported Safe Soulmates in expanding its initiatives, enabling more targeted support to its members. Healthy Eating Groups Led by staff and volunteers, these cooking sessions focus on encouraging healthy eating habits in the neurodivergent community. Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training This training addresses the health disparities faced by autistic people and those with learning disabilities, providing work opportunities for neurodivergent trainers and raising community awareness about the barriers to equitable healthcare and social care. Safe Soulmates works in a consortium to deliver this training to health providers, alongside Eddie’s, Voiceability, Circles Network, The Expert on Myself and ROCCS, we also deliver to local authorities and dentists. Testimonials ‘It’s an invaluable course for any one working in healthcare and social care to support their role when treating and meeting patients with learning disabilities and Autism.’ ‘Brilliant course and great to hear from the co trainers’ personal experiences.’ ‘Excellently delivered content, thought provoking and relevant for daily life’ Overall Impact Safe Soulmates continues to build an inclusive community that fosters connection, training, and opportunities for neurodivergent and disabled adults, positively impacting mental health, employment, and social inclusion. Funding and Support: In 2024 we have been kindly funded by National Lottery, Evelyn Trust, Farthing Trust, Harry Curetan, Marshalls (CCF), CPSL Mind, Co-op (CCF), Harry Curetan (CCF), Assura (Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Integrated Board), Cambridge City Council, East Cambs District Council, Ely Rotary, Freemans, Huntingdon Community Chest. We also received kind donations from the Marshall family, E H Smith, Vandersanden, Mills and Reeve, Redgate, Covid Enquiry and Fletchers Solicitors. We also could not do what we do without the support of volunteers who give us so much of their time to help us to build this valuable community.

Safe Soulmates engages in ongoing consultations with stakeholders, including members, volunteers, staff, and the wider community including parents and carers. These consultations are conducted through regular surveys, interviews, and steering group and board meetings. In October 2024, a comprehensive survey was completed by 52 respondents, providing valuable insights into the impact of Safe Soulmates’ activities on their lives. Survey Feedback – Key Findings: The survey highlighted that many members have significantly benefited from the friendships and connections made through Safe Soulmates. One participant stated, “Safe Soulmates has helped me and others with their confidence and gives us the best social life.” Another noted that it has “greatly decreased social anxiety and loneliness,” while others described feeling more connected to the community and more confident in social settings. Several respondents expressed how specific activities and events, such as discos, pub meet-ups, and online ‘Huggles’ sessions, positively impacted their mental health. One member shared, “The discos are by far my favourite socials. I LOVE dancing, and I come alive with every piece of self-confidence.” Another highlighted the importance of the LGBTQ+ group, expressing how it provides “a safe space to talk to my fellow gays.” Challenges and Responses: While the feedback was largely positive, some challenges were noted. A few respondents mentioned feeling overwhelmed or left out at certain events, particularly when the venues were noisy or crowded. Safe Soulmates has since reviewed its event planning processes to include more quiet spaces and smaller group activities to accommodate those who struggle with sensory overload or social anxiety. Ripple Effect Mapping: In addition to the survey, Safe Soulmates implemented Ripple Effect Mapping to identify the broader impact of its activities. This process involved discussions with members and staff, mapping out how individual and group experiences have created a ripple effect of positive outcomes, including increased self-confidence, reduced isolation, and greater community engagement. This exercise highlighted the significant impact of the Oliver McGowan Training, which has been pivotal in raising awareness and fostering greater understanding of learning disabilities and autism. Board and Steering Group Meetings: Feedback from the steering group and board meetings also informs Safe Soulmates’ ongoing strategies. Recent discussions focused on enhancing inclusivity in events, refining communication methods for members with varying support needs, and developing targeted outreach for older members and those newly diagnosed as neurodivergent.

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