The Day Opportunities Engagement Project

The Day Opportunities Engagement Project, a collaboration between Healthwatch Darlington and Darlington Borough Council, sets out to improve day opportunities for adults in Darlington by making them more personal, meaningful, and accessible. By engaging with service users, carers, and stakeholders through surveys and focus groups, the project gathered valuable feedback to inform future improvements. 

The findings highlight the strengths of current services while identifying significant gaps and opportunities for development. Participants widely praised the social benefits of Day Opportunities, which foster connections and combat isolation. Structured activities such as arts and crafts, cooking, and exercise programs provide enjoyment, routine, and purpose, while supportive staff are seen as key to the services’ success. However, feedback also revealed challenges. 

The number of people accessing available Day Opportunities has been declining over the last few years, a situation which was exacerbated by the Covid 19 pandemic. Transport barriers, limited activity diversity, and affordability issues further restrict access for many, particularly those in rural areas or requiring specialised support. Additionally, information about available services needs to be further promoted to ensure people are aware of what is available. 

The recommendations focus on addressing these barriers while building on the service’s strengths. Expanding creative and physical activities, increasing group outings, and introducing tailored programs for underserved groups can make services more inclusive and engaging. Addressing transport challenges and affordability will help remove key barriers to participation. Enhanced communication efforts are needed to raise awareness of available options, particularly during periods of transition, such as when young adults move from education to adult services. Finally, offering greater flexibility through extended service hours, drop-in sessions, and holiday programming will better meet the needs of carers and participants.