Generate Speak Up Meet Up 21st November 2024

 

 

 

 

On the 21st of November 2024 Generate Voices hosted Speak Up Meet Up 2024 at Generate’s office

 

A powerful event bringing together individuals and organizations passionate about advocacy and inclusion for people with learning disabilities, autism and neurodivergent people. The event featured a mix of in-person and online participation, with guest speakers sharing insights, experiences, and ideas for driving positive change.

This hybrid event was a true celebration of collaboration, featuring key contributions from 

• Lewisham Speaking Up 

• Kate Allen from Purple Stars and University of East London

• Safraz Kherdin from Speaking Out for Hounslow 

• Andrew Lee from People First 

• Brooke Campion from BILD (British Institute of Learning Disabilities) 

• Simone Aspis from Inclusion London 

• Katharine Netting from Wandsworth’s Learning Disability Partnership Board 

 

 

While most of the guest speakers joined via Zoom, Katharine attended in person alongside a few Generate Voices members, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment for discussion and exchange. 

 

The Mental Health Bill

Simone Aspis from Inclusion London provided an in-depth discussion on the proposed changes to the Mental Health Bill and what they mean for people with learning disabilities and neurodivergent people.

She highlighted the importance of safeguarding rights, ensuring access to appropriate care, and involving people with lived experience in decision-making processes.

Simone’s insights sparked a lively conversation among attendees, who shared their thoughts on how to influence these changes through advocacy and action.

Healthy Eating Campaign 

Safraz Kherdin from Speaking Out for Hounslow presented an engaging talk about their Healthy Eating Campaign, which promotes better nutritional habits among people with learning disabilities.

He explained how the campaign uses creative workshops, accessible resources, and community engagement to encourage healthier lifestyle choices.

This topic resonated with many attendees, who emphasized the importance of accessible information and support for health and well-being

Voices United for Advocacy 

 

In addition to these key topics, other guest speakers brought their unique perspectives: 

• Lewisham Speaking Up emphasized the importance of empowering individuals to self-advocate for their rights and needs.

• University of East London & Purple Stars Shared insights from their research on creating inclusive opportunities

• Andrew Lee from People First spoke about systemic change to ensure equal access for individuals with learning disabilities.

• Brooke Campion from BILD highlighted strategies for dismantling barriers and promoting person-centred support.

• Katharine Netting, attending in person, provided valuable insights into the work of the Learning Disability Partnership Board and its role in influencing local and national change. 

 

Minister for Disabled People

After a break, we moved on to discussing the new Minister for Disability, Sit Stephen Timms who was appointed the position by our Prime Minister, Kier Stammer

Everyone was asked what their thoughts were on this and shared their thoughts, opinions and ideas that the new Minister of Disability can do in his term.

Some said we shall see what happens.

Thank You to all who attended the Speak Up Meet Up of November 2024 looking forward to the next one in the spring time.