“It takes a long time… it can feel like no one is listening to you”
Yesterday, I had the chance to step away from my desk and experience one of our community sessions in action.
As a remote worker in the Communications team, I don’t often get to see our projects unfold in person. Much of our work involves sensitive issues, and we’re always careful to protect the privacy of the people we support. So, it felt like a real privilege to attend one of the regular discussions led by our Learning Disability User Involvement Coordinator (LDUIC) at the LDN Community Hub.
LDN London is a charity supporting adults, children, and families with learning disabilities across the city. Their community hubs are vibrant spaces where people come together to learn new skills, make connections, and have a voice in how local services are run. These hubs don’t just tackle social isolation, they empower people to shape the communities they’re part of.
This week’s session focused on Housing – an issue that, for many, can feel complicated and overwhelming. “I reported that my toilet wasn’t working and they didn’t get back to me,” one participant shared. Another added, “It takes a long time… it can feel like no one is listening to you.” These experiences are all too common, and underline exactly why sessions like this are so important.
The discussion gave everyone space to share their experiences, frustrations, and ideas. Our coordinator guided the conversation, helping the group explore practical steps for raising concerns and knowing their rights when housing issues aren’t being resolved. The atmosphere was open and supportive – part peer learning, part problem solving.
One attendee, who also sits on the local council’s housing workshop, listened throughout the session with plans to feed-back what was shared. This direct connection between the learning disability community and local decision-makers ensures that the voices of those most affected are not just heard, but acted upon.
Why these sessions matter
Sessions like these highlight the real power of user involvement. They offer people the tools and confidence to advocate for themselves, while giving professionals a vital window into the realities of everyday life for people with learning disabilities. They bridge the gap between individuals and systems – turning frustration into action, and isolation into community.
At The Advocacy Project, we believe that lasting change happens when people are not only supported, but listened to. These regular discussions at the LDN Community Hub are a powerful reminder of that.