PEOPLE with learning disabilities are being encouraged to speak up for themselves and to shape the future of services they need.

They are doing this through The People’s Union, small groups across Herefordshire which discuss issues affecting their lives.

Their first conference at the Kindle Centre in Hereford drew a packed house for an event for people with learning disabilities organised by people with learning disabilities.

Caroline Warby, a People’s Union support worker said it was a huge success.

Chosen topics included Let’s Do Lunch and the Stay Up Late campaign and there were workshops including the launch of Steps to Respect, showing how people with learning difficulties should be treated. There was social time, too.

The People’s Union – which comes under the umbrella of Herefordshire People’s Advocacy Network – hopes to do it again next year, subject to funding.