On Thursday 15th December the CDC 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 at this
link.
The Young Ambassadors also encouraged their MP 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.
About the film
The film focuses on challenging stereotypes and
perceptions of disability and showing the positive effect for all
if disabled young people are involved in decisions about their
lives. It can be viewed at www.councilfordisabledchildren.org.uk/youngdisabledincontrol
Further information
For more information contact pshaw@ncb.org.uk or 0207
843 6853.