Susie and Serena visit Prime Minister
A Warwickshire duo, who are dedicated campaigners for employment rights for adults with learning disabilities have met with Tony Blair in his private office at the House of Commons.
The invitation, organised by North Warwickshire and Bedworth MP Mike O’Brien, came following the launch ‘In our shoes’, a DVD produced by the pair last year.
Susie Pallitt from Stockingford in Nuneaton, and Serena Nordon from Warwick, both have learning disabilities and carried out an in-depth investigation into employment opportunities for adults with learning disabilities in Warwickshire.
The duo’s research found that despite the fact most adults with learning disabilities are able and want to work, only about one in six do any paid work. And, in fact, the minimum wage is forcing adults with learning disabilities out of work instead of ensuring them a fair deal.
Susie said, “We were very excited to have the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister. He made us feel very welcome and we talked to him about our experiences and what we had done.”
Serena said, “We spoke with the Prime Minister for about fifteen minutes and he was very interested in what we had done. We also met with Anne Maguire, the Minister for Disabled people and feel confident that our voices are being listened to and that things can change.”