MEMBERS of a supported living service have volunteered their help to make sure people stay hydrated at this weekend’s Disability Pride.

Staff and four residents at Arden House in Preston Park, Brighton, will be greeting visitors and running a watering station at the event at Hove Lawns tomorrow.

The celebrations will include live music, acts, performances and speeches from disabled people, work from disabled artists and stalls from local support organisations.

Arden House supports people with learning disabilities, autism and complex needs,

Chris Woolgar, manager of Arden House, said: “Everyone’s getting really excited ahead of the big day and enjoying being part of the planning process.

“The event’s volunteering programme means that more people with both visible and invisible disabilities or conditions can get involved.

“Being part of the organisation and planning meetings for this wonderful celebration is giving them a real sense of purpose.”

Disability Live kicks off at noon with a short parade along the promenade, led by Unified Rhythm – a carnival band with more than 80 per cent disabled members.

The Arden House team includes David Metzler, 33, Taurean Bailey, 29, Nicholas Arnell, 34, and Jamie Blunden, 22.

Mr Woolgar said: “The celebrations will bring disabled and non-disabled people together to help change and challenge negative attitudes and perceptions.

“Although disability rights have come a long way for people with disabilities, barriers can be more frequent and have greater impact.

“We hope this event allows people to celebrate what’s been achieved so far, and to keep building a community to fight these challenges.”

The event will be officially opened by Alison Lapper, Councillor Dee Simson, Mayor of Brighton and Hove, and Jenny Skelton, chairwoman of Disability Pride

Arden House is run by the Regard Group.