Unique Voices, a participation and engagement group for young people with SEND in Cumberland, has officially launched a new animation project aimed at highlighting the everyday lived experiences of young people with SEND in the region. The launch aligns with Learning Disability Week (16–22 June), which this year carries the theme ‘Do You See Me?’
The animation was co-written and developed by the young people themselves, supported by colleagues at Cumberland Council. They then collaborated with award-winning Carlisle-based animation studio Plus3k to bring their vision to life. Styled like a 2D computer game, the animation follows a character named Safen as they go about their daily routine and visit a coffee shop to meet a friend. Once there, Safen becomes overwhelmed by the busy atmosphere, encountering inconsiderate customers and an impatient barista. The story then shifts to show how a more positive, supportive environment—marked by kindness, patience, and understanding—can significantly change Safen’s day for the better.
The young creators premiered their animation at a special launch event held last week at Cumbria House, where they shared it with local leaders. Attendees included directors and officers from Cumberland Council, portfolio holders Elaine Lynch and Emma Williamson, as well as representatives from The Lanes Shopping Centre in Carlisle. The attendees then participated in a workshop with the young people to discuss how they felt and what they learned while watching the animation, and how they could use the animation with colleagues going forward.
The young people now plan to use their animation as an educational resource, which will form part of an education pack to be available for all schools in the Cumberland area to access. They also hope to engage more local businesses in raising awareness and encouraging training around the lived experiences of young people with SEND.
A young person from Unique Voices said:
At Unique Voices, we are working towards making communities feel accepted and that they belong, no matter what disability they have. We made this animation for people who have a disability to feel okay, and to recognise that there are challenges in life that some people have to face day in, day out -but we are all unique in our own ways!
“While coming to Unique Voices it's okay to be myself around people because it's a safe place, no matter if you make funny noises or you are stimming, you should be accepted for who you are.”
Councillor Elaine Lynch, Portfolio Holder for Lifelong Learning and Development at Cumberland Council said:
“I was delighted to be invited to the launch event of this animation to celebrate the work of our young people with SEND in Cumberland; they have worked so hard and we are all very proud. The animation is fantastic, and it serves as a powerful tool in how it conveys the group’s lived experiences. They have developed it in a way everyone can understand, breaking down those interactions and the deeper impact they can have; it’s a brilliant and clear message to us all to be aware and to show compassion.
“I can’t wait to see what the group do next, and I would strongly encourage any young people with SEND in Cumberland who are interested to consider joining Unique Voices.’
You can watch the animation in full on our Unique Voices page on the Cumberland Family Hubs website: Unique Voices | Cumberland Family Hubs
Unique Voices are always looking for new young people with SEND aged 11 - 25 to join them; along with projects like this, they work together with Cumberland Council and local services to ensure young people’s voices are heard. You can find out more on the Cumberland Youth Voice Facebook page, or email Youth.Voice@Cumberland.gov.uk