Join us for the October meet of Our Voice, Our Agenda (OVOA), a new, independent forum created by and for d/Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodiverse people in the North East.
Frustrated by the government’s tokenistic Regional Stakeholder Network, we are building a space where we truly represent ourselves. This forum will be led by our community, set by our agenda, and focused on the issues that matter to us in the North East.
This is your chance to help shape a platform where our local skills, knowledge, and lived experience are genuinely valued.
Who Should Attend?
This meeting is open to:
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Member Organisations: Deaf and Disabled People’s Organisations (DDPOs) from across the North East.
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Community Members: Disabled-led community groups and independent disabled people actively involved in their local communities.
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Allies & Allied Organisations: We also welcome allies and organisations that support disabled people. (Please note: allied organisations are asked to send a disabled representative where possible).
The North East includes: Gateshead, Newcastle, North Tyneside, Northumberland, South Tyneside, Sunderland, County Durham, Hartlepool, Stockton-on-Tees, Middlesbrough, Redcar and Cleveland, and Darlington.
What to Expect
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Collaborate using the principles of the social model of disability and a rights-based approach.
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Be part of the discussion that decides the future direction and formal terms of reference for OVOA.
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Connect with a network committed to meaningful co-production and collective action.
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Help ensure our voices are heard by services, organisations, and government—on our own terms.
Accessibility: The meeting will be held on Zoom with Closed Captioning and BSL interpretation provided.
How to Join
Registration is essential. Please sign up in advance via the Zoom link below. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with information on how to join the meeting.
Register for the Zoom Meeting Here
Let’s build a platform that reflects us – our voices, our agenda.
We look forward to seeing you there
