These are our children

In times when being disabled meant segregation and public ignorance, this film helped to raise awareness and show that children deserve fun and purpose, whatever their ability.

Cameras were allowed in for the first time to film the faces of the children of the Norfolk and Norwich Society of Mentally Handicapped as they enjoyed the facilities in the Norwich Occupation Centre. It was an attempt to change attitudes towards disabled children and the film was used to campaign for better provision and care for children - many of whom had little or no social life at all.

This filming was ground breaking at the time and the pressure to make it came from a small group of parents hoping it would help children with learning difficulties to become more visible and acceptable to the outside world. Children with Special Needs went to the centres to enjoy and experience normal things as well as learn new skills and socialise - just like any other child at school. These films were hired out and used to raise awareness and funds for the Society. It represents a unique record of the early days of the organisation now known as Mencap.