Chelmsford City Council is running the annual Discovery Festival in recognition of the United Nations International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD.

Now in its fifth year, the Festival is moving to a new home at Chelmsford Museum.

The international day is acknowledged each year on December 3 to promote a positive image of people with disabilities by celebrating their achievements and helping others to understand disability issues.

The festival will launch on the December 3, with a new ‘My Ability’ gallery. This will showcase and celebrate the work of students and members of local support groups.

Discovery stands will be available at the Museum, encouraging visitors to discover and understand disability through interactive, immersive experiences.

The Museum will also be receiving the National Autism Friendly Award, this June, for the warm welcome it provides to people with autism.

Chelmsford city council’s champion for disabled children and adults, councillor Stephanie Scott, said “This event is a great opportunity for our city’s residents to learn about the impact of living with a disability and the incredible range of support services available to disabled children, adults and their Carers within our area.

“I myself have worked with children and adults challenged by physical and neurological disorders for over twenty years, and so I am very much looking forward to helping to raise awareness of disability and the support available for those affected.”