On Thursday 15th December the Council for Disabled Children Young Ambassador's held a parliamentary launch of their film Young, Disabled and In Control at House of Commons.
The launch, opened by Annette Brooke MP and Kate Green MP, was an opportunity for the young ambassadors to meet their local MPs to show their film and discuss the campaign and issues for young disabled people.
Sarah Teather, Minister for Children and Families, was also in attendance. In her speech she highlighted the importance of including the views of disabled children and young people when making policy. The Minister said she will be looking to the Young Ambassadors and other disabled young people for feedback on the Government's response to the SEND Green Paper consultation when it is published next year.
Following the showing of the film the young ambassadors held 'reverse surgeries' where they had the opportunity to ask their MPs about what they are doing in their own roles to support disabled young people to be involved in decisions about their lives. Each of the Young Ambassadors also explained to their MPs what it is like to be a young disabled person in the UK today.
Young Ambassador Katie said she enjoyed having the opportunity to talk to many different MPS; "It was great to meet the MPS from different constituencies and hear their opinions on disability and what they are going to do. Thanks to Kate and Annette for sponsoring the event from everyone at the Young Ambassadors group."
Annette Brooke later mentioned the event in the debate held on health services in the Commons Chamber, saying it was a "great honour and privilege [to] meet [these] amazing young people who are achieving so much." Footage of Annette's speech can be viewed on the Parliament website.
The Young Ambassadors also encouraged their MPs sign an online promise to say what they will do to challenge stereotypes surrounding disability.
Following this event the Young Ambassadors are continuing to showcase their film in their local areas to highlight the importance of disabled young people having choice and control over their own lives.
For more information contact pshaw@ncb.org.uk or 0207 843 6853 or visit our Disability topic area.
Wed, 04/01/2012 - 15:26
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A new package to develop local staff to support and train young people to conduct objective assessments of local services and support recommendations for service improvements.
