On the 3rd October I got the opportunity to visit the People’s Forum. This is a supportive, positive group which seeks to find ways to improve United Response’s support, but to also shout about all the great things United Response does.

The group is formed of people supported by United Response, along with members of staff and personal assistants. The group is a valuable space for the people to communicate about how they feel United Response is supporting them. The newly formed group has 7 members at the moment, which means everyone gets a chance to contribute.

Everyone was very happy to be there and I really felt the ethos that United Response really cares for the people they support! The group is passionate about making sure that voices are heard and it was definitely felt at this meeting. Some other comments from members were ‘they were in awe’ and that they ‘loved being here’.

It was also lovely to see United Response directors there, including Ali Gunn (interim Director of Communications and Marketing) and Julia Casserley (former Director of Communities), who took on board the feedback.

One important topic of discussion looked at the term “safeguarding” and if people understood what was meant by it. Some members of the group thought that “more training is needed on safeguarding for support staff” and for “assumptions to not be made regarding support”. Others felt they wanted more time to learn and understand what statements meant. Someone else said that “it is important people understand abuse and what it looks like”.

An ending quote from Francesca was:

“If it wasn’t for you guys, we wouldn’t be here. This forum is built for you”.

I’m sure the group will continue to grow, and is on the lookup for more members and staff champions to make this happen, as well as starting local forums. This made me feel proud of the work that United Response does for its people. As a disabled person myself, I am proud to work for such a great company that cares about its people and wants to make disability representation an active part.

• The next meeting for the group will be on the 10th December 5pm-7pm, and will be held online. Email peoplesforum@unitedresponse.org.uk for access details.