A disability forum is being held for people in Rutland and Stamford
It's aiming to find how to better support people living with disabilities in the area
A forum is being held to help better support people living with disabilities in Rutland and Stamford.
MP Alicia Kearns is hosting the forum to highlight the local support organisations available.
People who attend the meeting can share their own experiences of living with a disability during a series of roundtable discussions.
It's our role to adapt things to make things work for people
Deborah Crate is from Support & Connections, a day service providing person-centred support for adults with disabilities and is going to the meeting. She said:
"There are no two people with disabilities that are the same, and it's our role to adapt things to make things work for people."
"Just talking to other people is a major help and makes you feel heard."
"People with disabilities and their families need lots of support."
"It's a fantastic opportunity to access a support network."
"When I was first looking into opening a base in Oakham, we couldn't find a lot of choice for people."
"So I think the forum will provide an opportunity not just to meet people but also to discover what else is in the area for them."
It's a fantastic opportunity to access a support network
Discussion will include talking about transport, leisure, education and skills, employment, housing and health.
After the meeting Kearns will identify what can be done to better support those living with disabilities in the area.
Alicia Kearns MP said:
“I want to do all I can to support those living with a disability in our communities, so this forum will be an important opportunity to hear your direct experiences about what more can be done to improve accessibility and services locally."
“Working with our service providers, charities and community groups, together I am hopeful we can raise awareness of the support available to all and make our communities more inclusive."
The Disability Forum is taking place from 10:15am until 12pm today at The Barnsdale in Exton.