Matthew Harrison
Politicians and policy makers too often overlook the needs of people with a learning disability A learning disability is to do with the way someone's brain works. It makes it harder for someone to learn, understand or do things. . It is only by bringing the two groups together that we can start to change attitudes, challenge stigma, and educate people about the challenges that people with a learning disability face.
This event was an opportunity for MPs and Peers to hear directly from campaigners across England, Wales and Northern Ireland on what changes are needed to improve the lives of people with a learning disability. Over 50 MPs, Peers and their staff members attended the event.
Our host for the day, Marsha De Cordova MP has been a lifelong disability
rights
Rights are the things everyone should be allowed to do like have a say, or go to school.
advocate
An advocate is a person who can help you have your say. An advocate can speak up for you if you find it hard.
and emphasised the benefits that politicians can get by listening to and involving people with a learning disability in their work. Attendees also heard about
the government
The Government are the people who run the country. They decide how much tax people should pay for things and how things like the National Health Service should work.
’s ongoing work from Minister for Social Security and Disability Sir Stephen Timms MP.
Meanwhile, Mencap Northern Ireland’s Eoin Kenny shared his story and the challenges he has faced. With support from Mencap, Eoin has broken down the barriers that he faced and achieved the life that he has always wanted. Eoin’s story demonstrated how people with a learning disability can thrive and achieve their dreams when they are given the proper support.
The politicians that attended were offered the opportunity to become a learning disability champion and ensure that people with a learning disability are included in Parliament Parliament is a group of people who make laws and check what the government is doing. ’s work.
We will be building on this event by continuing to engage politicians on the issues and challenges facing people with a learning disability and support people with a learning disability to engage with politicians.