Each month we feature an inspirational individual or team who overcome barriers to make a real difference in their communities. This month we feature Campaign 4 Change who won The 2019 Michael Ludlam Award for Advocacy, policy and the media, in the Dimensions Learning Disability and Autism Leaders’ List.
Campaign 4 Change is a force to be reckoned with. Meaningful relationships, the right to have a good time, trans rights, hate crime, accessibility and ditching labels are all in their sights.
The members of Campaign 4 Change are truly encouraged to campaign on what they believe in. Here’s a taste of what they’ve been up to…
Goodbye labels!
Campaign 4 Change have been raising awareness of disrespectful language sometimes being used by staff and professionals in social care and health sectors. The group did a workshop at the (un)Ordinary Conference, several other presentations and a photo campaign to inspire staff to avoid using labels and derogatory phrases when speaking to and about people they support.
The right to be recognised as trans
There is a multitude of issues and stigma transgender people face, and even more that transgender people who have learning disabilities face.
Member Vicki is campaigning to raise awareness of such issues, helping other people understand what it means to be transgender and advocating for equal rights and opportunities.
Hate crime
We found that hate crime affects over 70% of people with learning disabilities and/or autism and it’s critical people across the sector work together to tackle it.
Two creative members, David and Stevie, created a short film called “STOP!” to raise awareness of hate crime against people with learning disabilities and/or autism.
David and Stevie are also singing to raise awareness.
Stevie composed a song about bullying, which he performed at Brighton Disability Pride 2018 and David has asked people to come together and professionally record a cover of “Where Is The Love” by the Black Eyed Peas, which he’ll use to raise money for Stop Hate UK.
Overcoming fears and challenges
Not all members are natural public speakers, and some struggle with reading and communicating with words.
Members have learned to attend meetings, lead meetings, listen and support each other, present in front of many people, talk about their causes to strangers, meet new people, visit new places and create ideas.
This group is doing incredible things and, I’m sure you’ll agree, they’re doing an incredible job!
Parting words…
“All one needs is determination, confidence in oneself and one’s cause and practice – then anything can be achieved.”
If you would like to watch the videos and find out what else the group have done, visit dimensions-uk.org and search for Campaign 4 Change.
