PARALYMPIC footballer and Olympic torchbearer Leon Taylor is encouraging people to join Derbyshire County Council in celebrating International Day of Disabled People.
The sports ambassador will speak at an event, Clearing Hurdles, organised by the county council to inspire Derbyshire residents to realise their full potential.
Anyone with a disability, including their family, friends or carers, is invited to the event where there will be workshops and services promoting help available in the county.
Visitors can try tai chi and sign language, get employment advice, see presentations by local disability groups, find out about relevant Derbyshire County Council services, enjoy performances from local dance groups and meet other disabled people, their carers and families. And relevant groups and organisations are being invited to host a stall at the event.
Derbyshire County Council Cabinet member for Public Health Councillor Carol Hart said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to promote all the support available locally to help disabled people in Derbyshire achieve their aspirations.
“After coming third in this year’s Paralympic Games it’s been a significant year for disabled people in Great Britain. We hope this event will keep the momentum going locally by showing the wide range of opportunities available and inspiring people to believe in themselves, whatever hurdles they may face in life.”
Leon Taylor, 37, who lives in Derby and has cerebral palsy, said he was looking forward to the day and urged people to go along.
“I know what it’s like to feel as though your disability gets in the way of what you want to do and I think it’s great the county council is promoting local services to help improve this,” he said.
“I hope the day will encourage people to realise their full potential and break down barriers that may prevent them from doing what they want to do in life.”
‘Clearing Hurdles’ will take place at County Hall, Matlock, on Monday 3 December from 10.30am to 3pm.
Relevant organisations are invited to host a stall at the event. Anyone interested should contact senior policy officer for equalities John Cowings on 01629 538384 or john.cowings@derbyshire.gov.uk.
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