Advocacy Western Isles recently welcomed Donald MacKinnon MSP to a meeting of its Speak Out Group, giving members the opportunity to speak directly with him about the issues that matter most in their lives.

The Speak Out Group is a free collective advocacy group for people with learning disabilities across the Western Isles. The group meets twice monthly to discuss issues that affect members’ everyday lives, including accessibility, health care, social care, housing and travel.

Issues raised by the group are shared with relevant decision makers to help inform future change and ensure the voices of people with learning disabilities are heard in local policy and service development.

In addition to its regular meetings, the group enjoys quarterly social trips together, helping members strengthen relationships, build confidence and develop a strong sense of camaraderie.

Members welcomed the opportunity to meet with Donald MacKinnon MSP and share their experiences, priorities and ideas for improving life for people with learning disabilities across the islands.

Donald MacKinnon MSP said: “I was delighted to be invited to attend the Speak Out Group meeting last week.

“Listening to the voices that do not always get heard is so important and I gained some valuable insights from the group. We spoke about lots of different issues from access to health care, local employment opportunities and the cost of transport.”

“I’ll be taking the issues raised forward and will report back to the Speak Out Group on progress at a future meeting.”

Ian MacRae, Chief Executive of Advocacy Western Isles, said: “The visit was an important opportunity for members to speak for themselves, influence the decisions that affect their lives and continue building positive links with local representatives and services.”

To find more information about Advocacy Western Isles’ Speak Out Group, or any of their other advocacy services, please visit their website or Facebook, or call on 01851 701755.