When does it run?
Our Groupies sessions take place every 2 weeks on a Tuesday evening from 6.30 to
9.00pm
Where does it take place?
The service takes place at our premises at 8 Stanley Park Road, Wallington SM6 0EU.
Who is the service for?
The service is generally aimed at adults with a learning disability who enjoy a lively, noisy evening. Most of the service users are people who are independent and have no significant support needs. However, the group is also open to people who have packages of care, including those who attend other Sutton Mencap services. We would not usually provide personal care as part of the service.
How is the service organised?
The service is group-based. Typical attendance is around 15 to 20 people per session.
Who provides the service?
Each group is run by a team of 4 or 5 staff including a service co-ordinator. All our staff are experienced in working with people with a learning disability and have taken part in our extensive training programme.
We sometimes have volunteer support on the service and encourage service users to help out.
How can I join the service?
People typically self-refer or are referred by their families. It is not necessary for you to have a package of care in place, although if you are in receipt of council funding you may be able to use that to pay for services.
Is there a waiting list?
The service is very popular and we therefore usually operate a waiting list. For up to date information on how long you are likely to wait before accessing the service, contact our Adult Services Manager, Tammy Satchell on 020 8138 8956 or e-mail tammy@suttonmencap.org.uk.
Can I choose when I attend?
Yes. Once you are confirmed as a member of Groupies you can decide which sessions to attend.
What happens on the service?
Groupies is a loud, vibrant, energetic night. We have a wide range of activities on the service, including talent shows, karaoke or a disco. We also have film nights, cooking, or events around a particular theme, from Bollywood to Vegas to 007.
Can I choose the activities I will do?
Services are planned with the involvement of group members, so we will try and plan activities that will suit all the people who attend. We will often have different activities taking place at the same time to allow people to choose different things.
Is transport available to attend the service?
No. You will need to arrange your own transport to and from the sessions.
How much does it cost?
If you have no support needs, each session costs £10 to attend, which is paid on the night.
For those who have a package of care and therefore additional needs, the service is priced as follows:
- Low support needs: £34.80 per session (£13.92 per hour).
- Medium support needs: £45.50 per session (£18.20 per hour).
- High support needs: £71.80 per session (£28.72 per hour).
These prices are correct up to 31st March 2026.
What needs to happen before I can start?
We need to have the following in place before you can start on the service:
- We need to have a place available for you.
- You will need to complete a client information form.
- We will need to confirm you can attend.
- If you are attending as part of a package of care, you may need to talk to social
services about having the funding for Groupies included in your package.
How can I find out more?
Contact Tammy Satchell, Adult Services Manager on 020 8138 8956 or e-mail tammy@suttonmencap.org.uk
Reviewed April 202