Our Project Worker Angel Shaw wrote about her experience of attending last month’s Council Chambers Takeover and Learning Disability Pride March, during Leeds Learning Disability Week! Here is what she had to say.
Before the day, as part of the Travel with Confidence project, I planned a journey using Google Maps and the First Bus App. This was so people attending knew where to go. We also planned group journeys to get there.
We got the bus in the morning from the office, to arrive at the Takeover in good time! I was looking forward to this event.
Once we arrived, I guided all members to where they needed to sit. It was a bit overwhelming because it was busy, but everyone got seated and ready for it to start.
It was so busy that I didn’t manage to get a cup of tea, but everyone else enjoyed the refreshments and biscuits.
Asking Questions
There were 10 pre-set questions, I got to ask one of them.
I asked what training bus drivers have for autism and learning disabilities. They said drivers take training courses in how to support individuals.
Other members asked questions regarding bus passes starting early. They also asked questions about other areas such as adult social care. All council staff gave some positive answers, as well as ones that talked about challenges.
Learning Disability Pride March
I loved this part of the day! We marched all the way from the Civic Hall to Kirkgate Market. We all held signs – mine said “I am proud to be who I am”, and we chanted and made ourselves known.
We had members of public watch us along the route. On the way, we stopped for a photo opportunity at the Corn Exchange, before we went into the Market. Then, near the end of the march, police checked in on us, making sure we didn’t need support.
I had fish and chips for lunch, and everyone who came got to use their voucher to get a tasty meal.
It was such a brilliant day and loved to do this. Can’t wait for next year!
