Promoting Self-Advocacy in London (2)

Hi readers, it’s Kerry and Emily again, with more on our visit to London this February.

Thankfully the event was in the afternoon, so we didn’t have to catch a too early train from Dorchester. The guard was helpful getting out the ramp for me, Kerry. I sat with my carer Laurie, in the wheelchair-user space, and the others took turns to join us.

Once in London, we walked to the Houses of Parliament, stopping for a picture of us all on Westminster Bridge overlooking Big Ben.

After the faff of security getting in, a friendly guide escorted us to the meeting room, via a very long accessible route, which was all very interesting.

Once in the room, it was great to meet people we’ve seen online, but never in person. The event was excellent, with interesting short talks from MP Liam Conlan, Nadine (Director at Social Finance), Jonathan (Henry Smith Charity), Simone Aspis (lived experience campaigner) and Tanyah (Social Finance). Then it was time for the panels.

After the Lived Experience panel, I, Kerry, also sat on the Policy Implementation Panel with Laura (PFD Manager), Jacqui (CEO Challenging Behaviour Foundation) and Helen (LD Network London). There were lots of good questions, but in a flash the event was all over and we found ourselves walking back to Waterloo station, playing ‘guess the price of penthouse hotel room’ we spotted overlooking the Thames!

It was a fabulous and productive day. However, I, Kerry was so tired on the way back I could barely think, which was actually quite funny. Thankfully I, Emily still had plenty of energy and had a lovely catch up with Jo and Zoe from PFD as the train brought us back to Dorset.  

More details of the report on the PFD website soon, so do look!

The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff