Mental health is universal, touching lives across the globe. Statistics reveal that more than 1 in 10 individuals worldwide will face a mental health challenge at some point in their lives. For those with severe or profound intellectual disabilities, the odds are higher, affecting more than 1 in 4. These individuals, reliant on others for their every need, face heightened risks of trauma, pain, loss, and abuse, all while being unable to vocalize their need for help.

At Nurturing Affective Care (NAC), we recognize the silent struggles faced by this community. Families yearn for the world to understand that limited verbal expression doesn’t equate to a lack of feeling and emotion. Yet, this crucial fact often goes unnoticed, leaving mental health needs unaddressed.

Caring for those who communicate through facial expressions, movements, and behaviours demands skill and understanding. That’s precisely why NAC exists — to collaborate with families, offering knowledge, information, training, and support.

A Voice from Our Community: ‘It can’t be overstated how reassuring it is to find expertise as a family member. I’m so delighted to have found NAC.’ (Parent Carer)

Empowering families and caregivers with the resources they need results in flourishing and thriving lives. As a society, we stand to gain immeasurable gifts from individuals with severe and profound intellectual disabilities — a deep connection, presence, and appreciation. As one parent beautifully stated, ‘teaching us the power of compassion, humility, and humanity’.

NAC’s Mission: NAC operates as a registered Community Interest Company (CIC), not-for-profit, from the UK, with a global reach. Our vision is clear — to ensure the emotional and mental health needs of children and adults with severe and profound intellectual disabilities are not just recognized but properly cared for.

We provide guidance on safe, natural approaches to create emotionally enriching experiences. Everything we do is suitable for those who communicate without words, informed by evidence and our values. NAC offers training and support on emotional and mental wellbeing through face-to-face or online workshops, support sessions, courses, and hands-on experiential coaching.

In the past century, mental health approaches predominantly relied on medication and talking therapies, often inappropriate or inaccessible for those with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. However, a paradigm shift is underway, with a growing understanding of the mind-body link and the therapeutic potential of body-oriented, sensory-based approaches.

NAC’s Contributions: NAC curates accessible guidance on wellbeing experiences for individuals with severe and profound intellectual disabilities. These experiences, categorized under Arts and Creativity, Interactions and Relationships, Mindfulness, Movement, Music, Nature, Sensory, and Touch, don’t require specialized equipment and are designed for easy implementation by caregivers, parents, and educators.

Connect with Us: For more information, free ‘how to’ guides, and training, visit www.nacwellbeing.org or contact julie@nacwellbeing.org.