22/01/2026
National Hugging Day is an annual event dedicated to hugging. It was created by Kevin Zaborney and occurs annually on January 21. The day promotes consensual hugging and the power of hugs between family members and friends.
A hug is profoundly important to an adult with a learning disability because it provides essential emotional regulation, reduces anxiety, and fosters a sense of safety, often serving as a powerful, non-verbal form of communication in a world that can feel isolating or overwhelming.
For many of our service users we know physical touch acts as a vital tool to manage emotions, alleviate stress, and build trust in relationships, especially when they struggle to express their needs verbally.
Of course, within professional boundaries at all times.
While hugs are highly beneficial, it is crucial to respect personal boundaries and ensure the individual is comfortable with physical touch. For some, we look for alternative ways of offering comfort, such as using a "HUG" sensory device. You will note in one of our photos a service user choosing a weighted soft cushion/toy that mimics a heartbeat—this is very effective.
Thank you to our carers who put on this activity to remind us all of just how important it is to be nurturing and gave that human touch in the day to day work we do 🤗
