Dedicated to helping people with learning disabilities overcome loneliness and live the lives they want.
We believe everyone should have people in their lives who aren’t paid to be there - real friends who simply enjoy spending time together. That’s the heart of Gig Buddies.
Instead of organising separate events for people with learning disabilities, we pair them with volunteers who share their interests. Whether it’s music, sport, culture, food, or anything else they love. It’s all about genuine connection and shared experiences.
Our projects are about making sure people with learning disabilities and autistic people get to lead the life they want.
With Gig Buddies we match people up with a volunteer who shares the same interests so they can go to “mainstream” events. Working to normalise the idea that disabled people have the right to an ordinary life full of things that matter (friends, dancing, a rich social life…), and being able to Stay Up Late if they want to too!
Since launching Gig Buddies in Sussex in 2013, the project has grown into a global movement—with over 20 partner projects across the UK and beyond.
We continue to run Gig Buddies here in Sussex, but if you're interested in starting a project in your area, we’re here to help you make it happen.