Ali Gunn, interim director of communications for a national disability charity and social care provider, has expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Disability Unit’s Regional Stakeholder Network.
Gunn has extensive experience across various sectors, including the third, private, and cultural sectors. For the past seven years, she has made significant contributions in social care, leading ambitious teams in communications, marketing, policy, and fundraising. Her leadership of the My Vote My Voice campaign exemplifies her commitment to ensuring individuals with learning disabilities understand their voting rights and have access to the information necessary to make informed choices.
The Regional Stakeholder Network (RSN) plays a crucial role in advising the government on eliminating barriers faced by disabled individuals. It aims to create an inclusive society where everyone can participate fully. The network facilitates the sharing of lived experiences and insights from disabled people and disability organisations in England, directly informing UK Government policies.
In her new role as chair, Gunn will continue addressing issues affecting many disabled people by maintaining an ongoing dialogue with the government. She is determined to ensure that the lived experiences of disabled individuals guide and shape her efforts. Gunn stated, “I am passionate about ensuring disabled people’s lived experience leads my work. My godson is autistic and has complex needs. He has spent most of his childhood in specialist residential provision; now, he is 18 and has moved into adult social care. He and his family have faced significant challenges because of his disability but they have also experienced many positives as a result of policy change. It has had a profound impact on my life and career. I’m delighted to be able to chair the North West network and ensure that disabled people across the region feed into the important work of the disability unit.”
Gunn’s appointment as chair of the North West’s Regional Stakeholder Network signifies a step forward in advocating for and implementing policies that address the needs of disabled individuals. Her extensive background in social care and unwavering commitment to utilising lived experiences in policy-making positions her as a pivotal figure in this effort.