Startling statistics underline the invaluable work Braintree District Mencap Society does to brighten and empower the lives of people with learning disabilities.

As Disability Awareness Week takes place from June 16, the charity, which has more than 300 members and over 50 committed volunteers, is opening its doors to the public.

Figures, provided by Royal Mencap campaigns, have revealed as many as nine out of ten people with a learning disability have suffered from bullying or hate crime.

One in four people with a learning disability spend less than one hour a day outside their own homes.

While 65 per cent of people with a learning disability want to work, but only 10 per cent are in paid employment.

Eight out of ten carers have reached breaking point.

Braintree Mencap, which is based at Charles Leeks House, 7 Coggeshall Road, Braintree, is having opening its doors to the public on June 18.

To find out more about the charity and to meet staff and volunteers, pop along to a lunching and munching session from 12pm-2pm.