A new learning disability and autism ‘leaders list’ will recognise the most influential figures “making things better for themselves and others”.
Nominations are now open. You can nominate yourself, or someone you know, until 27th August.
The Leaders List is run by support provider Dimensions in association with the Guardian newspaper, membership group Learning Disability England (LDE) and the Voluntary Organisations Disability Group (VODG.)
Winners will be selected by a group of judges who are experts by experience.
Up to 60 winning stories will make up the Leaders’ List, in four categories:
Two special winners will also be selected for the Young Leader (under the age of 30) and Lifetime Achievement awards.
Everybody who shares their story (or is nominated by someone else) will receive a certificate thanking them for getting involved and celebrating their achievement.
“Less than six percent of people with learning disabilities, and 16% of people with autism, are in work,” said Steve Scown, Chief Executive of Dimensions.
“People with learning disabilities die 20 or more years before their non-learning disabled counterparts. Three quarters of people with autism and learning disabilities experience hate crime.”
“And yet, across the country, people with learning disabilities and autism are advocating to make life better by changing national policy and practice and entrenched social attitudes.”
“They are spokespeople, lobbyists, experts by experience. They are actors and singers. They are film makers, receptionists, DJs.”
“You may not yet have heard of them. But gradually, their persistence is making a difference.”
Promoting their achievements together will help change society faster and make things better for everyone.”
“Following judging and story preparation, the listing will be announced through the Guardian on the International Day of Disabled People, on 3rd December.”
