The Conservative Disability Group will once again be hosting an exciting and informative fringe event at the 2018 Conservative Party Annual Conference in Birmingham focussed on:

'How do we make society more inclusive for people with hidden disabilities?' 

As we continue to make progress in terms of empowering disabled people and ensure there are more opportunities to live independently, gain employment and have greater control and freedom in our lives - this year's fringe event poses the question as to what further steps can be taken to make society more inclusive for people with hidden disabilities?

The panel of speakers includes a range of people from across the disability sector, local government and those with first hand experience of living with a hidden disability for what is set to be a stimulating and thought provoking discussion.  

The event will focus on the moves that are being taken by the government and charities in this area and some of the challenges ahead, with contributions from those with a particular interest in autism, epilepsy, biploar and FSH muscular dystrophy.   

The event will take place in Executive Room 2 at the ICC.

Chair - Peter Hand - Chairman CDG

Sarah Newton MP - Minister of State for Disabled People, Health & Work (DWP)

Clare Pelham - CEO Epilepsy Society

Simon Kitchen - CEO Bipolar UK 

Jonathan Andrews BCA - Trustee, Ambitious About Autism.

Cllr Charles Fifield - Vice-Chairman, Cheshire West & Chester Council's Disability Access Forum

Following the introductory speeches there will be opportunities to ask questions to the panel.

Please note the venue is within the secure zone and security passes will be required to access this event.

Refreshments will be provided for this event.

Speech to text will be provided at this event. Please do advise if you have any access requirements for this event by e-mail: [email protected]  

(Photo of Jonathan Andrews courtesy of the Royal Commonwealth Society)