Clwyd West MS Darren Millar congratulated those who took part in the Leonard Cheshire ‘My Voice My Choice’ programme when he recently attended and spoke at the programme’s Conwy and Anglesey celebration event which took place in Eirias Park in Colwyn Bay.

The My Voice My Choice programme is designed to develop participants’ campaigning and advocacy skills to enable them to make a difference in their local community.

Three workshops were run in each of Lenard Cheshire’s 12 locations in Wales for disabled people and their allies. Each session covered a wide range of issues such as hate crime, social inclusion, health and wellbeing.

Those who participated received certificates and Darren was invited to be present them, and to be the Keynote speaker, at the event, which was attended by participants and their family and friends.

Speaking afterwards, he said:

“It was a real pleasure to attend this celebratory event and to hear from the participants about their achievements to date and what they hope to achieve in the future, and to discuss how they can work towards achieving their campaigning goals.

“It was also an opportunity for me to tell them what inspired me to get involved in politics and campaigning, and to pass on any helpful tips as they set out on their own campaigning journey.

“Leonard Cheshire carry out excellent work, supporting disabled individuals to live, learn and work as independently as they choose, whatever their ability.

“They work in local communities to provide people with opportunity, choice and support, and have accommodation services – including supported living and registered care homes; and social, education and leisure programmes – including day support, community outreach services and respite support.

“I was very impressed by their My Voice, My Choice programme and it was evident from speaking to participants at the celebration event, just how much they had benefitted from the workshops.

“It was great meeting them all, and I wish them the very best of luck going forward.”