This week is Learning Disability Week, and the theme this year, ‘Do You See Me?’, shines a light on something of great importance to us at Aspens - making sure that everyone with a learning disability feels seen, heard, and valued.

At Aspens, our vision is for a society where every autistic person and those with a learning disability can thrive as part of their local community. To help make that vision a reality, we’re proud to support initiatives that ensure the voices of the people we support are not only heard, but genuinely listened to.

That’s exactly what the People’s Voice Forum is all about. Set up to give those we support a meaningful say in shaping Aspens’ services, the group is led by lived-experience representatives Tony and Andrew, supported by our Inclusion Lead, Gary Haynes. The forum meets regularly, both online and in person, welcoming individuals from across our services in Kent, Sussex, Bexley and Surrey to take part, share ideas, and raise what matters most to them.

And now, for the first time, the People’s Voice Forum has gone on the road!

To mark Learning Disability Week, the team held their first ever roadshow at our Pembury site – home to a number of services including Acorns Day Opportunities, Supported Living, and Residential Care.

The roadshow gave the people we support a chance to speak up about their experiences at Aspens – what’s working, what could be better, and what they’d like to see more of. Tony and Andrew, who created the event’s survey themselves, were keen to ensure every question used inclusive, accessible language, so everyone felt comfortable taking part.

Andrew said: “We’re looking for ideas from people across Aspens to help us keep improving the services we offer. It’s so important to hear from as many people as possible, so we know what really matters to them.”

Tony added: “A big part of the People’s Voice is about helping others to feel confident getting involved and speaking up. One thing I care about a lot is showing the amazing skills of people we support – because so often, society doesn’t see them. I want to help change that.”

Gary Haynes, Aspens’ Inclusion Lead, said: “We were really pleased to have 17 people complete the survey during our first roadshow. It’s brilliant to capture their views and use that feedback to inform the wider charity. It was a fantastic start – and we’re now looking forward to our next roadshows in Hastings and St Leonards in the coming months.”

The People’s Voice Roadshow is a wonderful example of what Learning Disability Week is all about, making sure people with learning disabilities are truly seen and heard.