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Valentine’s – one day, many meanings
Published
It may be just one day, but Valentine’s is a reminder to celebrate the universal human need for love. We take a look at how the day can both help and hinder inclusion, and how we each have the right to interpret the day in whichever way we choose.
It’s a love-hate thing. Red roses and chocolate boxes are the well-worn stereotypes that some enjoy and others can’t stand. Deciding whether to buy into Valentine’s Day at all – or whether to show our loved ones how we care throughout the year in our own way – is the extent of the debate for many.
But for others, the approach of Valentine’s can be uncomfortable or alienating. The pressure to ‘find love’ can feel exclusive or unattainable and seems to place romantic love on a pedestal above all other kinds. But as we all know, there are many forms of love, care and connection, and all are valid. We are all different when it comes to love – where we find it, how we value it, and the ways we express it.
The UN Convention of the Rights of the Child tells us that children and young people with disabilities have the right to live a full and decent life with dignity and, as far as possible, independence, and to play an active part in the community. Moreover, it acknowledges the rights and responsibilities of Parents and Carers to provide guidance and direction to their child as they grow up, so that they fully enjoy their rights.
When Future Me have been out and about speaking to young people about their aspirations for adulthood, friendships and relationships have been a consistent priority we have heard. For example:
“I struggled to make friends with people my own age.”
“[There should be] Better education about what a healthy or unhealthy sexual relationship is.”
“I’m looking forward to having a dog, having a family and making new memories.”
Finding support
We realised that this priority was missing from our advice and guidance on Future Me, the young people’s Local Offer. We set about correcting this and have created a new section that summarises the local support young people can access.
‘My Friends and Relationships’
This includes:
- signposting to STREET, (Safe Teenage Relationship Education) and;
- signposting to Building Connections, a commissioned programme coordinated by Active Impact with local partners. It is designed for young adults who are looking for connection and friendship in a way that works for them.
Visit the page to find out more. If there is an aspect of ‘friends and relationships’ we have missed, you can let us know, we’d love to hear your view! Email us: futureme@gloucestershire.gov.uk
Mencap videos
The charity Mencap was a particular inspiration for us, as they have many engaging videos on the topic of love and relationships.
Here are two of our favourites:
In summary
Whether you are a romantic at heart or are prioritising time with friends, family or pets this year, we wish you a happy Valentine’s Day. We hope you enjoy it however you please, always on your own terms.