Achieve together hosts workshop at Learning Disability England Conference
At the recent Learning Disability England Conference held in Birmingham on Wednesday 4th March 2026, voices from across the sector came together to explore new ways of building a more inclusive society. This event is one of the highlights of the Achieve together year, as we are invited to take part as co-sponsors alongside other charities and providers across the sector. It felt particularly pertinent this year, as the theme was ‘Being Seen, Being Heard’ closely reflecting Achieve together’s work supporting d/Deaf people with learning disabilities across England and Wales.
Among the standout sessions was a powerful workshop led by us and Campaign 4 Change, our self-advocacy group, titled More than Words.
The session used a compelling two-scene sketch to bring an important issue to life. In the first scene, the audience witnessed the isolation often experienced by Deaf or Hard of Hearing people who also have a learning disability navigating a world not designed with them in mind. The second scene offered a striking contrast,showing what becomes possible when environments are genuinely inclusive and communication barriers are removed.
The workshop was a true collaboration. It was co-created by Achieve together’s Co-Production Team, Rachael Gholap and Elmi Terjavjainena, and Boo Holmquest, one of our Registered Managers along with Kay Skipp and Jade Wainwright from EDS, Bath and, Nancy Weatherson of FeelHear Deaf Awareness.
Taking centre stage were the stars of the show, Shane and Jonathan from Campaign 4 Change, whose energy and authenticity helped bring the message to life.
Rachael explained that the session was designed to be fully interactive, encouraging participants to learn by doing.
“Campaign 4 Change’s workshop was fully interactive, from acting out a sketch to teaching British Sign Language and Deaf awareness, and even signing a song together with the audience,” she said. “Highlights of the conference included creating a song together in the afternoon with Open Story Tellers about the rights of people who have a learning disability, hearing from CBeebies presenter George, and of course delivering the Campaign 4 Change workshop.”
For many involved, the collaboration itself was just as meaningful as the performance. Boo reflected on the shared purpose that brought people together:
“We came from different parts of the country, united in helping educate and dispel myths around d/Deafness. Judging by the fantastic responses and feedback, it was a huge success.”
The conference itself featured a series of inspiring moments throughout the day. Keynote speakers offered insight and challenge in equal measure. Paul Scriven spoke about the importance of ensuring people are truly seen and heard, while Simon Bottery highlighted the need for a more connected and sustainable social care system.
The day concluded on a moving and uplifting note with television presenter, actor, dancer and author George Webster, who appeared alongside his father. Reflecting on the atmosphere of the event, they shared a message that resonated strongly with the audience: “It’s nice to be in an environment where differences are embraced, normalised and celebrated. I’m delighted to be part of the team bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing world.” Through creativity, collaboration and lived experience, More than Words demonstrated exactly that, showing that when people come together to listen, learn and communicate differently, inclusion becomes far more than just words.
Find out more about our specialist support here for D/deaf people with learning disabilities here
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