PEOPLE with learning disabilities have taken part in an anti-crime photographic exhibition.

Users of the 247 group, based in the Markhouse Centre, Markhouse Road, Walthamstow, took part in a project aimed to help them feel part of the community and safe on the streets.

As part of the project, 'It's my life, I'm living my life', they were photographed by a local artist taking part in activities around the borough such as gardening or working in a shop, followed by discussions about community safety.

Head of learning disabilities for Waltham Forest and Redbridge, Sheenagh Burgess, said: “People are worried about doing different things and want to feel safe and part of normal life.

“We have close links with the Better Neighbourhood Team because of the recent crimes in the area and our users must be feel vulnerable, so we want to help them keep safe.”

She said that the project was also very much about accepting that people with learning disabilities are capable of taking part in community activities.

She added: “It is not about disability, it is about ability.”

Photographer Rachel I'anson, who was commissioned by Waltham Forest Council to run the project, explained: “The aim was to show users doing activities which some people may take for granted, but for members are more difficult.

“It was also to say that they may come into contact with gangs or knife crime and that they still have the right to say no.”

The photographs, accompanied by the users words have been displayed at the Markhouse Road centre.