People First is all over the world. It is lead and directed by people with a learning disability.

It is where people with a learning disability learn to speak up for themselves and for their friends.

"Speak up for people who can't speak up for themselves"
Ian Sadler

People First:

• gives people the chance to talk about things that are important to them

• helps people learn about their rights and responsibilities

• helps people learn to make choices and get more confidence

• helps people to learn that making mistakes is OK and part of life

• tells people about laws and what they mean

• gives people the chance to have their ideas heard by government,

• is where people make new friends and have fun

Meetings

When you become a member of People First you go to meetings with other people with a learning disability. You will be told where the meetings are and what time.

A People First planning day with DPA

When you become a member you have the right to go to all meetings and activities the group organises. You have the right to vote at meetings.

Every People First group elects a:

• Chairperson - who guides the meeting and speaks up for the group

• Vice chairperson - who is the Chairperson if they aren't at the meeting

• Secretary - who sends out notices saying when and where the meeting is to be held and takes the minutes

• Treasurer - who looks after the money

To become a member and find out about meetings in your area click here.

To find out about what People First Assistants do click here.

People First Assistants

People First groups have one or two people who support the members to run their meetings. Assistants do not have any control or power in the group. They are there to help if needed.

They might:

• help organise the room

• make sure everyone understands what is happening

• assist the group to organise any activities or outings