Who we support

We support a community of people with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and those who have complex sensory needs, such as Autism.

PMLD is commonly associated with pronounced Developmental Delay with significant physical and sensory impairments and Epilepsy. Most people with profound and multiple disabilities will have physical disabilities and will be unable to walk. They may have hearing and sight problems. They will communicate non-verbally, that is, they will not speak or if they do, will use only a few words. Some may use signs and symbols or look and point to what they want.

Apart from their health complications, the main disadvantage that people with PMLD face is social exclusion. Families and care providers can find that going out or taking part in activities is too risky due to their health, so they do not have the same opportunities as non-disabled individuals. It is difficult to find activities in which they can participate safely, which also have the necessary equipment for their daily needs, such as private changing facilities and hoists to sit comfortably.

For many, their physical impairment can make everyday tasks and activities challenging, causing frustration and resulting in behaviours which some will see as challenging.

It is suggested that there is a significant lack of choices in further learning and lifelong learning for their future well-being (Townsley 2013, 2014). Often, our session attendees have few role models from disabled groups and many experience real or perceived discrimination. Some also develop long-term challenging behaviours and other behavioural issues due to a lack of opportunities for authentic self-expression.

Two Rhythms is committed to supporting our community to access fully inclusive creative arts experiences for all our participants across Wales and beyond.