The impact of self-advocacy

Read about the film in this short blog:

We wanted to launch this film as part of Advocacy Awareness Week as it helps to show the real difference self-advocacy has made to people's lives over the years.

As Gary Bourlet, self-advocate for over 35 years, explains, ‘in the past, it was very difficult for people with a learning disability to speak up for themselves’ with all the power being in the hands of provider organisations and families.

The film goes on to tell the story of how, since then, many people with a learning disability have become empowered to speak up for their rights and needs. There is now a new generation of self-advocates who have gained control, choice and independence in their lives.

Many people with a learning disability now feel confident to lead the life they really want to live. Whether that be expressing their sexuality, building a family of their own or pursuing their passions.

Not only does the film show the impact self-advocacy has had on the lives of people with a learning disability, but also the impact that people with a learning disability have been able to have on the wider world.

Through the stories and experiences of inspirational people with a learning disability, the film is an opportunity to hear about the role self-advocates have played in tackling discrimination, influencing policy and educating many non-disabled people.

It is also a chance to learn from the ‘strong and important history’ of the community. This truly shows the challenges that people with a learning disability have managed to overcome and what can be achieved when people are empowered to self-advocate.

Learning Disability England and Speakup Self Advocacy