Three individuals supported by Salutem Care and Education; Kim, Mark, and Louise, recently travelled to the House of Commons to share their experiences and champion the voices of people with disabilities and those supported by social care at the Meet Your Carers event. They were joined by team members from each of their services, along with Jen Barnes, Group Quality Assurance & Inspection Manager, and Christopher Bell, Group Development & Improvement Manager.
Hosted in the Attlee Suite at Portcullis House, the event welcomed people supported by care services, carers, MPs, and sector leaders. Attendees heard from Sojan Joseph MP, Co-Chair of the Adult Social Care All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), and Stephen Kinnock MP, Minister of State for Care. The programme also included a panel discussion on the Casey Commission, the independent review into the future of adult social care.
The event aimed to shine a spotlight on adult social care, promoting inclusion, accessibility, and recognition for both those receiving and delivering care. It brought together MPs, ministers, and care leaders to discuss the challenges and opportunities within the sector — with a powerful focus on hearing directly from those with lived experience. This meant that the people we support had the opportunity to raise key issues that affect those living within care settings.
The group raised several vital topics:
- The need for true parity with the NHS
- Accessibility and public transport
- The impact of larger Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) on person-centred care
All three participants are also members of Salutem Voices, a representative group within Salutem Care and Education that champions the views and experiences of the people we support. Promoting choice, dignity, and control is at the heart of this initiative, which ensures individuals have a say in how their care and education are delivered. The group empowers people to shape the way support is provided, ensuring their preferences and perspectives remain front and centre.
Louise said: “I loved going to London and seeing the House of Commons. It was exciting and made me feel important. I want people to know what life is like for us and to listen when we speak.”
Speaking about the visit, Kim said: “It was brilliant to be at the House of Commons. I liked hearing what the MPs had to say and being able to show that people like me have things to say too. It’s important we are listened to.”
Speaking about his visit, Mark Urwin said: “I really enjoyed going to the House of Commons. It made me feel proud to speak up for myself and others. People in care should be heard, we matter too.”
