Bringing efforts together to strengthen disability support

As I step into the role of Disability Champion, I am determined to support disabled people through collaborations with local organisations, charities and groups.

Of American origins, a British citizen, standing Councillor for Richmond upon Thames in East Sheen, I have great interest in people living with disabilities. Having a disabled daughter, with a variety of conditions, I have come to understand that navigation through the world is different and multilayered. I sit on the Adult Social Services and Housing Committee, Education and Children Service Committee, Corporate Parenting, along with Achieving for Children. I have been working with and helping to develop the Community Ambassador Programme since its inception.

My priorities include understanding community needs, informing people about available resources, and enhancing the accessibility to these resources.

Our common welfare should always come first. The community as a whole, including all its members and those with disabilities, needs to be set up for everyone. Not all disabilities are visible but that does not mean people are not suffering. I have seen marginalised communities struggle, and if their needs were taken into consideration, life could be so much easier. People should have a good forum to voice their concerns and problems, utilise resources, or develop ones that will help to smooth the processes.

There are absolutely fantastic local partners that do incredible work and have great insights. I look forward to liaising with them and see how I, and how the Council, can help. Each person and organisation will face different challenges, making the journey enlightening.

I am excited and simultaneously intimidated by all the work being done by various groups. I do not want to step on toes or do anything that is ineffectual. It will be finding the way, and then bringing any gaps in information to the Council for help.

What I would like to do is be able to help and participate as needed, or when help is offered by organisations. It is a huge area, and I am greatly anticipating the role.

If you would like to get in touch about how I can help, email me at Cllr.M.Dane@richmond.gov.uk. 

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