Campaign 4 Change members share lived experiences at national conference on transitions 

The conference also marked the launch of the Challenging Behaviour Foundation’s new report, Building a Bridge: How to end the cliff edge of transition between children’s and adult services for young people with learning disabilities in England. Discussions throughout the day focused on the need for better planning, stronger collaboration between organisations, and more joined-up support during periods of change. 

Sharing the reality behind transitions 

Representing Campaign 4 Change, Michael and Julien delivered a presentation called The Turning of Life’s Chapters, sharing personal experiences of transitions and the difference that the right support can make. 

Drawing on their own lives, they spoke about both positive and challenging experiences, reminding listeners that transitions are about much more than moving between services or reaching different life stages. They are about feelings, relationships, confidence and having people around you who understand and support your goals. 

Michael and Julien highlighted the importance of friendships and trusted relationships with support teams. Their message was powerful: when people have consistency, trust and genuine connections, they are better equipped to navigate change and succeed in the next chapter of their lives – an important thing for professionals to bear in mind for both the development and continuity of relationships. 

The session concluded with their popular and memorable rendition of Where is the Love? by the musical group Black Eyed Peas, bringing energy to the room and reinforcing the importance of compassion, understanding and inclusion. 

Turning discussion into action 

The themes explored by Campaign 4 Change reflected many of the issues discussed throughout the conference. From children and young people moving into adult services and developing greater independence, to transitions in housing and support, attendees heard a clear call for systems that work better together and place people at the centre of decision-making. 

Reflecting on the day, Michael spoke about the frustration many people shared regarding the pace of change and the challenges organisations can face when working together to improve support. Julien highlighted the importance of making sure future generations receive better co-ordinated support and do not have to face the same barriers experienced by many young people today.

Why lived experience matters 

One of the strongest messages from the conference was the need to listen to people with lived experience. Good transitions are not created by policies alone. They are built through meaningful conversations, strong relationships and support that is shaped around the individual. 

We are incredibly proud of Michael and Julien for representing Campaign 4 Change and ensuring the voices of people with learning disabilities were heard throughout the event. 

Their contribution demonstrated exactly why self-advocacy matters. By sharing their experiences, they helped challenge assumptions, influence discussion and remind everyone in the room that every person deserves the opportunity to move through life’s chapters with confidence, freedom and the right support around them.