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| Stephen Metcalfe MP signing the Pledge with Forum Chairman, Mark Dale |
Stephen Metcalfe, local MP for South Basildon and East Thurrock, spent last Friday afternoon with the Basildon Disability Equality Forum in celebration of the International Day of Disabled People.
The Forum, who seek to fight against stigma of mental and physical disability, treated Mr Metcalfe to a blindfolded three course meal to raise awareness of the difficulties faced by blind people.
Commenting, Stephen Metcalfe said: “It was quite an experience attending the forum meeting. Whilst it was only for a short period of time, being blindfolded helped me to gain a deeper appreciation of the problems faced by those who have lost their sight and I have the upmost respect and admiration for people living without sight on a daily basis.”
After the meal local councillors, council staff and Mr Metcalfe were asked to pledge one thing that they would do over the next year to support the disabled community.
Mr Metcalfe added: “The whole event proved to be an extremely educational and insightful experience. I have pledged to continue to work with the Forum to promote positive views on disability and to stay in regular contact with them to keep up to date about issues affecting disabled people in my constituency”
“I would like to thank all involved in the meeting for their hard work and dedication in fighting the stigma against disability and I look forward to being involved with the organisation in the future.”
