Sometimes the best conversations happen when you get out on the road. That was certainly the case when Liddie and Laura from Disability Rights UK packed up the car and headed to Wiltshire to spend time with the brilliant team at Wiltshire Centre for Independent Living (CiL).
The mission? To learn more about the fantastic work they’re doing through the Pioneer’s Programme and to hear first hand how co-production is embedded into everything they do.
From the moment we arrived, it was clear that Wiltshire CiL lives and breathes co-production. The Pioneer’s Programme is a brilliant example of how people with lived experience aren’t just consulted they’re leading, shaping and driving the work forward. The team shared stories about how pioneers bring ideas, challenge systems, and create change in their communities. It’s exactly the kind of energy and leadership that makes the independent living movement so powerful.
We also had a great conversation with Dan from Wiltshire Council about the possibilities of bringing GYA (Get Yourself Active) to Wiltshire. There was plenty of enthusiasm around the table about what that could look like locally opening up more opportunities for disabled people to move, connect and build confidence through physical activity. Watch this space!
Of course, no road trip would be complete without a little adventure. On the way back, we couldn’t resist a quick side quest to Stonehenge. The weather had other ideas though, cue blustery winds, flapping coats, disobedient hoods and some very windswept selfies. Still, there’s something pretty magical about standing near one of the UK’s most iconic landmarks, even when you’re battling the elements.
All in all, it was a fantastic day of sharing ideas, building connections, and exploring what’s possible when organisations work together with Disabled people at the heart of it all.
Huge thanks to the amazing team at Wiltshire CiL for the warm welcome and inspiring conversations. And here’s to more road trips, more collaboration, and many more great ideas taking shape.
