Local author Alan Bissett formally launched a new service for adults and young people with learning disabilities across the Forth Valley Area. Quality Action Group of Stirling and Advocacy Into Action of Falkirk and Clackmannanshire have recently merged to become Central Advocacy Partners. The new organisation was officially unveiled at Stirling’s Tolbooth theatre on Friday to an audience of councillors, social services staff and service users from across the Forth Valley.

The critically acclaimed author of Boyracers and Pack Men gave his endorsement of the newly formed service; ‘Having a say in the decisions that affect our lives, be it at work or to do with where we live, is something that most us take for granted’, he said. ‘Sadly the views of people with learning disabilities are often lost or not taken into consideration. It is great to see Central Advocacy Partners taking its lead from the people who use the service.’

Central Advocacy Partners will serve the needs of hundreds of adults and young people from throughout the Forth Valley.

Elizabeth Findlay, manager of central Advocacy Partners, said: ‘Working as one organisation will allow us not only to pool resources and expertise, but increase the level and scope of services we can offer; ‘Ensuring that adults and young people with learning disabilities have their voices heard and can contribute in the decision making processes that impact upon their lives, is of paramount importance.’

The official launch of Central Advocacy Partners included music by Artlink, a live canvas-based interpretation of the event by artist Ramon Carr, and a short film by Small Majority, highlighting the personal experiences of service users.

24 October 2011