Have your voice heard!

Are you disabled, D/deaf, or living with a long-term health condition? Do you want to influence decision makers on the issues that matter most to you?

Devon Disability Voice (DDV) is a countywide inclusive engagement group led by Disabled people and people with long-term health conditions, who meet quarterly to identify priority issues that really matter to members of the group and to improve services to Disabled people.  

We work closely with councils and other authorities to create regular opportunities for our members to offer feedback in consultations around matters which affect their lives, with the long-term aim of getting disabled voices closer to decision-making.   

We’re looking for people who feel able to actively take part in discussions and share their lived-experience. This group works best when members bring their voices, perspectives, and insights from their own communities.

What the role involves

• Attending quarterly Devon Disability Voice meetings either in person or online. 
• To feedback issues and concerns that are affecting the disabled community in your area.
• Taking part in external consultations from partner organisations around matters which affect your life. 
• Sharing learning and lived-experiences with other Devon Disability Voice members and professionals. 
• Supporting the members of the group in a confidential space so that everyone can share their thoughts or concerns  
• Identifying opportunities where the expertise of volunteers and staff may support Disabled and D/deaf people. 
• A commitment to equality of opportunity. 

Who can join?

DDV strives to be a representative group. Whether you have a physical impairment, are Deaf, neurodivergent, experiencing a mental health condition, or living with a long‑term health condition – your voice matters. Your expertise by experience can help influence real change in Devon.

Skills and attributes

• Lived experience of disability or a long-term health condition, or experience supporting someone who does.
• Willingness to share your views and experiences to help improve services for Disabled people.
• Interest in working with others to highlight issues that matter to the disabled community.
• Openness to listening to different perspectives and respecting others’ experiences.
• Ability to contribute in whatever way works best for you – speaking, writing, online, in person, or through alternative formats.
• Commitment to attending quarterly meetings, either online or in person (with support available).
• Motivation to help shape positive change in Devon’s services and decision-making.

Skills and attributes – desirable (but not required)

• Experience of taking part in consultations, engagement groups, or community forums – but this is not essential.
• Interest in accessibility, equalities, or co production approaches.
• Comfort working with councils, health bodies, or community groups – support and guidance will be provided.
• Ability to represent perspectives from your community – this might be:
• a local neighbourhood, town, or rural area, or
• a disability related community, network, or lived experience group you feel connected to. You don’t need to “speak for everyone” – just bring insight from your community or circles.

Training and support for volunteers

• Online induction and a simple application process
• Ongoing light touch guidance and support from our team

If you are interested in becoming an active member of Devon Disability Voice please download and read the full role description and apply using our online application form.