_edited.png)
The Sunny Sessions
Radio Project
2020 - 2025
Sunny Sessions was created in 2020 by Sunnybank CEO Dorothy Watson and Futures Manager Claire Dawson in response to the isolation felt by our Sunnybank community during lockdown.
The show served several important purposes:
-
Kept people with learning disabilities connected during lockdown
-
Provided information and news updates in an accessible way
-
Lifted spirits through positive features such as exercise sessions and uplifting messages
-
Shared voice recordings from Sunnybank members
-
Ensured inclusion by hand-delivering smart speakers to local homes
-
Supported members to build skills in radio production and presenting
-
Helped to create and strengthen community connections
The show was was developed and presented by our in-house presenter Jon Andrews and guided by the contributions of our amazing Sunnybank reporters.
Our Reporters
Sunny Sessions was shaped and presented by a team of passionate reporters with learning disabilities.
Most were based in Surrey, with a few joining remotely from places like Bristol and Bournemouth.
The show offered space for reporters to explore their interests, connect with others, and develop skills in broadcasting.
Many were keen to pursue careers in radio, and some went on to host their own shows.
Their voices, ideas, and creativity were the heart of Sunny Sessions
Episode Themes
Every episode included real conversations, useful advice, and stories from the community. Themes have included:
Mental Health
& Wellbeing
Messages for the Prime Minister
What is
"Good Accessibility"
Health Passports
Employment Barriers
& Opportunities
Cost of Living
& Foodbanks
Disability Sports
What does "Independence" mean to you
We celebrated 5 years with the BBC
Our Impact
“As someone who has always found it hard to express themselves, connecting with Sunnybank is the best thing that has ever happened to me.
It brought me out of my shell more, and I learned how to be on the radio and have special memories to treasure. I think Sunny Sessions has helped me in so many ways, we have somewhere that will allow us to be ourselves.”
Emma B
Sunnybank Reporter
