Andrew Gywnne, MP for Denton and Reddish, signed “hello” to the national disability charity, Sense, as he learnt about how they support people with complex disabilities.
On 24 February, Andrew attended the Say Hello to Sense event in Parliament which was held to raise awareness about the different types of communication needs for people with complex disabilities. He learned how to sign “hello” and his name in British Sign Language. He was also given a label with his name printed in braille.
Sense has found that one of the biggest barriers to an inclusive society is communication. More than a quarter of non-disabled people have said that they would actively avoid having a conversation with a disabled person. This has led to many people with complex disabilities feeling socially isolated.
Andrew Gwynne MP said:
“It was great to meet with Sense to discuss the importance of communication and the many different ways in which people are able to communicate with each other.
“People with complex disabilities should not be made to feel socially isolated as a result of the way they communicate.
“An inclusive society is accessible for all and I am encouraging everyone to consider how they can improve the ways in which they communicate with the disabled people in their lives.”
Sarah White, Head of Public Policy and Campaigns at Sense, said:
“We were delighted to welcome Andrew Gwynne MP to our Say Hello to Sense event and we appreciate his interest in raising awareness about different communication needs for people with complex disabilities.
“Everyone communicates differently and Sense believes that no one, no matter how complex their disabilities, should be left out of life.
“It’s important that we continue to work together to break down barriers and make the UK an accessible place for all people with complex disabilities.”