Hear our voices event May 2026

This Healthwatch Herefordshire report describes the“Hear Our Voices” event held on 14 May 2026 in Herefordshire, which brought together 74 attendees, including people with learning disabilities, support workers, and organisations. 

The event is part of a regular six‑monthly programme that began in 2023, designed to give people with learning disabilities a platform to share their views, learn new information, and influence local services. 

The day included a range of presentations, activities, and discussions, such as mindfulness exercises, a campaign encouraging people to join their GP’s Learning Disability Register, a session on men’s health, and information about support available in hospitals. 

A key update was provided by Herefordshire Council on the Learning Disability Strategy and proposed changes to community day services, including plans to introduce more flexible community activities and the possible closure of underused day centres. Attendees expressed concerns about service closures, accessibility, and support, and were encouraged to share their views through a public survey.

Participants also discussed future priorities, highlighting important themes such as housing, transport, access to activities, employment opportunities, mental health support, relationships, and better information about services. 

Feedback on the event was largely positive, with most attendees finding it useful and valuing the opportunity to meet others, learn new information, and take part in discussions. However, some people felt the event was too long or noisy. 

Overall, the event demonstrated that people with learning disabilities value opportunities to have their voices heard, influence local decision-making, and connect with their community, and organisers plan to continue improving and developing future events based on feedback.