The Government has announced a very welcome National Forum for the less-able community, giving them a direct voice to the Government where they can influence decisions on policies and services.
As part of the Governments new Advisory Group, the National Forum will consist of 12 people who have direct experience of the requirements for the UK's disabled community. Throughout the next 6 months, these 12 members will assist in the setting up of the National Forum.
The Forum was established following The Prime Minister's Strategy Unit report, "Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People", in January 2005. The recommendation of the report was to implement a National Forum for Organisations of disabled people, providing a direct link to the Government.
A further recommendation of the Strategy Unit report was to establish an Office for Disability Issues (ODI), which was launched on 1 December 2005, providing a cross-Government focus on issues affecting the disabled.
Anne McGuire, Minister for Disabled People, speaking at the groups first meeting said:
"A national forum for disabled people demonstrates the Government's commitment to engaging directly in meaningful dialogue with disabled people. This will ensure that the needs of disabled people are not forgotten. I look forward to working with the Advisory Group, which will ensure that disabled people are included in the creation of the forum from the start."
Bruce Calderwood, Director for Disabled People and Carers in the Department for Work and Pensions, commented:
"The Government is committed to ensuring real equality for disabled people. This can only happen if there's genuine engagement and dialogue with disabled people. That's what the Forum is about. A key priority for me is ensuring it gives a voice to groups of disabled people who might otherwise struggle to be heard."
Alun Davies, Member of the Advisory Group, said:
"The Government's commitment to involving and consulting with disabled people is a very important message for disabled people to hear. As a disabled person who has been involved for many years in trying to make organisations listen to disabled people I welcome this opportunity to get involved with the development of the forum."
The Office for Disability Issues Website can be accessed by clicking the following:
The Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People report can be accessed from the Prime Ministers Strategy Website by clicking the following:
Improving the Life Chances of Disabled People
Further information on all aspects affecting the less-able can be accessed from the Disability Rights Commission Website by clicking the following:
The Disability Rights Commission
Article by Alexandra Johnston
