Yes, we see you!

A collaborative inclusion project providing a university experience for adults with learning disabilities

Project team

The project was led by:

  • Janette Porter – Project PI and Manager, Lecturer in Education, LJMU
  • Harriet Fuest – Project Research Assistant, Postgraduate Researcher and session teacher in Media, Culture and Communications, LJMU
  • Janine Melvin – Project Officer, Student Experience Officer, Faculty of Society and Culture, LJMU and Mencap Volunteer

Adults with learning difficulties and disabilities (LD) face persistent barriers to higher education, from inaccessible teaching to low expectations and stigma. Yes, we see you! was created at Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) to challenge these barriers and offer Mencap members a genuine experience of university life.

During Semester two of the 2024/25 academic year, LJMU partnered with Mencap Liverpool & Sefton to deliver 35 hours of adapted teaching in Creative Writing, Sport, Relationship Education and Media Literacy. 44 participants successfully graduated, developing skills, confidence and lasting friendships.

The project also offered valuable paid work experience for LJMU students and fostered new collaborations across the University. A short film captured the journey and has already been showcased nationally and internationally.

This was the first phase of the project. Following its success, Yes, we see you! will return in 2025/26 with the same team and exciting new modules. 

The modules

Creative writing

Participants explored songwriting, character creation and storytelling. Activities included group shanties, superhero stories and performances at the celebration event. Learners grew in creativity, teamwork and confidence, with some continuing to write and illustrate independently.

Sport

From rugby and Kin-Ball to laser tag, participants tried inclusive, team-based activities that focused on fun, communication and confidence. Learners reported feeling more comfortable joining in group activities and recognised the social and well-being benefits of sport.

Relationship education

Using role play, drawing, poetry and drama, participants explored healthy relationships, respect and the meaning of intimacy. Sessions provided safe space for open discussion, reassurance and signposting. The module proved highly impactful for learners, staff and families alike.

Media literacy

Adapted from undergraduate Media and Communications, this module explored fake news, media ownership and representation. Learners developed critical thinking skills, discussed bias, and created a magazine complete with clickbait adverts, horoscopes and articles.

Outcomes and successes

  • 44 Mencap members graduated after completing 35 hours of teaching.
  • All participants expressed a desire to continue study at LJMU.
  • Learners built confidence, reduced social isolation and formed lasting friendships.
  • Partnerships were created with LJMU Sport and the Film School, opening long-term opportunities.
  • Six LJMU students gained over 500 hours of paid professional experience.
  • The project film reached national and international audiences, amplifying participant voices.

Watch the film

The full documentary Yes, we see you! captures the voices, achievements and impact of the project.

Download the full report

Read the full evaluation, findings and recommendations from the project here.

Download the Yes, we see you 2025 report (PowerPoint, 25.7MB)

Looking ahead

Building on the success of 2024/25, Yes, we see you! will return for the 2025/26 academic year with new modules and the same dedicated team.

By embedding inclusive practice within higher education, LJMU and Mencap Liverpool and Sefton are not only opening doors for adults with learning disabilities, they are setting a bold precedent for what a truly inclusive university can look like.