CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF THE LEARNING DISABILITY FRIENDLY BADGE
8 May 2025
On Wednesday 7th May, Coventry and Warwickshire Integrated Care Board (CWICB) hosted the Learning Disability Friendly Badge Anniversary event, bringing together healthcare professionals, panel members, and experts by experience to reflect on the achievements of the past year and share best practice in creating inclusive, accessible services in GP practices for people with a learning disability.
The event began with Hassan Mahmood, Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Learning Disabilities and Autism at Coventry and Warwickshire Partnership Trust, delivering an insightful talk on the STOMP agenda and appropriate use of medication for people with a learning disability.
Sophie Meszar and Dougie Philippou from the ICB then shared the stark reality of health inequalities for people with a learning disability but also the programme’s progress over the past year, with nearly 20% of GP practices in Coventry and Warwickshire now accredited with the Badge.
The event also revisited the June 2024 Award and Recognition Ceremony, where Maisun Elftise celebrated those who had shown exceptional commitment to the programme’s values and standards.
A touching and powerful story was shared by Starco, an Expert by Experience who sits on the panel, who brought a deeply personal perspective to the discussion. Their voice helped to ground the event in lived experience and underscored the importance of accessible, compassionate healthcare.
The heart of the afternoon featured talks from three accredited practices on what it means to them to be a Learning Disability Friendly practice.
Caroline Wrigley from The Grange Medical Centre, Nuneaton, spoke about how the team integrated learning disability-friendly principles into everyday patient care. Megan Fulton and Sophie Greener from The Forum Health Centre, Coventry shared practical strategies and lessons learned during their journey to accreditation. Finally, Jenny Lee and Ayesha Mahmud from Moseley Avenue Surgery, Coventry closed the session with an engaging presentation and a showcase video, highlighting their inclusive approach and team efforts.
You can watch the video by clicking on the below.
The event concluded with a Q&A and wrap-up, allowing attendees to share reflections, ask questions, and explore next steps in continuing to build an inclusive healthcare system for all.
Sophie Meszar, Clinical Transformation Lead for CWICB, said “The Learning Disability Friendly Badge is important in addressing health inequalities – life expectancy is 19 years shorter for men and 23 years shorter for women with a learning disability.
“The anniversary celebration not only marks a year of impactful work but also strengthens the community’s commitment to equity, dignity, and voice for people with a learning disability.”
To find out more about the Learning Disability Friendly Badge, click here.