What is life really like for people with learning disabilities in Wigan Borough?
And what can the council do to help?
These were two of the important questions that lay at the heart of a unique one-day accessible conference held in Wigan today (Wednesday March 17).
More than 50 people from all over the borough and beyond converged on the town’s DW Stadium for the What’s Fair and What’s Not event, which aimed to get the views and opinions of people with learning disabilities and complex needs about their lives and experiences.
The event forms part of the Council’s consultation for the Equality Scheme and looked specifically at what changes can be made to improve the lives of people across the borough.
One highlight of the event was an interactive performance of What’s Fair and What’s not by the borough’s own More Than Words Theatre Company.
More Than Words uses drama, dance, poetry and more to explain and express the views of other people, particularly those with more complex needs. Their performance today informed attendees about the purpose of the event. It showcased people’s views about what they consider to be fair treatment and issues that need addressing. Attendees voted on their priority themes at the end of the event.
Councillor Keith Cunliffe, Healthier Communities and Older People Champion says; “Making life fair and equal for everyone in borough, regardless of their background or circumstances is at the very heart of what the council does.
“This is why creative events such as this are really important. We want people to tell us what life is like for them and what we can do to help.
“The council is here to listen but more than this, it is here to action and the best way we can do this is by working with others.”
Cllr Cunliffe adds: “I would like to thank the members from More Than Words for all their stunning interactive theatre performance and for all their hard work in leading on this event.”
