Local elections are coming in some areas in May and people may need help from a support worker to vote.
This got me thinking about what happens if the person supporting you to vote has a different opinion about who to vote for, so it’s important to ensure there is no influence.
It is important to use your vote. We have the right to vote but is that going to be enough? A candidate might not want to make a difference for you in society but, for me, that’s what a politician’s job is.
I thought it was interesting that when Rishi Sunak was the Conservative prime minister, we suddenly had an Asian person in Downing Street. But did it change the culture of politics from a diversity point of view? No.
If you are in two minds about voting, I would ask yourself the questions “Where do I see myself in five years time?” and “What do I want to change in society?” or “How do I want the UK to be?”
It is about using your right to protest and having your voice heard – although, of course, the politicians do not always listen.
Politicians do not think learning disability is an important issue. It is all about power, money and greed. But, if you are a politician, you should want to improve people’s lives and the places they live in so you should be listening.
It is harder for some people to vote because they may not have information about how to vote or what the politicians’ policies are. That is what I mean about some people needing support to vote.
If you’re someone with a learning disability, you have the right to get that support and need to make sure it is put in place so you can cast your vote. You can also find out about political parties if you watch the news.
Schools should be aware of this and teach children about how the government or councils work. When I was at school, they did not tell us about MPs or local councillors.
Politicians need to make more of an effort to reach voters who have a learning disability. But I also think that voters who have a learning disability need to find out more about politics and how to vote.
My birthday wish
I recently had a landmark birthday. It made me think about my achievements and one is being an uncle to my nieces and nephews. I have four nieces and two nephews; they sometimes call me Uncle Shal.
We had a small gathering for my birthday and I loved every moment of being with my family. I feel that, after seeing them, my day will go more smoothly.
I have a self-belief that my family gave me and the confidence that they will always love me. It has made me have ambition and to aspire to do more.
Voting is about using your right to protest and having your voice heard – although, of course, the politicians do not always listen
For the next year, I want to develop my knowledge with my research work, expand my social networking and carry on breaking stereotypes of disabled people being some of underclass.
Three things I’ve loved so far this year
One thing I watched
I watched the animated Disney film Beauty and the Beast. It made me think of my childhood. It was so entertaining and I love the songs.
One thing I listened to
Pop music is one of my favourite genres and I’ve been listening to Michael Jackson song Heal the World. The song from 1990s makes me feel there’s hope in the world.
One thing I’m doing next
I’m going to the Reggae Land festival in Milton Keynes this summer. I’m going with my friends – my festival crew.
I can’t wait to see all the artists, have a dance, enjoy myself and just have fun – that’s what life is all about.
