What a week it has been for the Conservative Disability Group and Ability2Win.
On Monday evening’s CDG Conservative party Conference fringe event, we had the pleasure of being joined by Dr Liam Fox MP, Minister for Disabilities Chloe Smith MP, Annabel Tall, Barry Ginley, Cllr Charles Fifield and Ismail Kaji, as they discussed building a more inclusive society for people with learning disabilities.
It was fantastic to see a packed out event with every seat in the room filled, and many more joining virtually from home, both familiar and new faces. Conservative Disability Group Chairman Barry Ginley began the event with the introduction of the panellists, all of whom contributed their expertise on inclusion from alternative perspectives, allowing for thought-provoking discussions and debates. It was brilliant to hear from Liam and Annabel about the work they are doing with the Down Syndrome Bill, and the aims they hope to achieve as they strive for improving access to public services for those with Down syndrome as their life expectancy and quality of life increases. Ismail, from Mencap, excellently provided us with a comprehensive breakdown of how we can build a more inclusive society in specific areas, from schooling to the social care system. Charles divulged the work that he has done as a Councillor in his local area, and through explanation of his own successes, offered guidance for improving both the physical and social care accessibility of local areas. The CDG were delighted to be joined by newly appointed Minister for Disabilities Chloe Smith MP, who spoke of her dedication to the new National Disability Strategy and the exciting work that she has already undertaken in her new role. Our panellists received a number of questions from the audience and from those watching at home, including changing perceptions and stereotypes, addressing social care equality and potential adaptations to health care in the future. A warm thank you goes to all of our panellists and to those who attended our event, ensuring disability is at the forefront of discussion.
Ability2Win could not have wished for a more successful launch at Conference this week. It was fantastic to see Ability2Win being continually supported by our Prime Minister Boris Johnson, The Cabinet, Minister, MP’s, Councillors and members up and down the country. As a party we are levelling up the opportunities for disabled people across all aspects of public life. Thank you to everyone for their continued support, ensuring disabled representation and accessibility is receiving the coverage it deserves. Each and every single one of us has the ability to reach our potential. Exciting things are on their way for Ability2Win so watch this space!
A special thank you goes to those who helped out or visited the Ability2Win stand and is sharing the work that we are doing far and wide on social media. Please do head over to our social media channels and give us a follow!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ability_2_Win
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ability2win/
Linkedin: Ability2Win
If you would like to sign up to Ability2Win, be kept up to date with everything we are doing, or to volunteer your assistant, please email: [email protected]
Written by Celia Hensman on behalf of the Conservative Disability Group