Listening to our diverse communities to understand the issues they face and make our borough more inclusive is crucial to building a fairer Kingston — something brought into sharp focus as we mark UK Disability History month in November.

Last week, on November 16, I visited Fusebox on the riverside as we launched the new Kingston Disability Network. The event brought together more than 25 organisations working on disability issues to discuss coming together in greater collaboration.

The new network will be a space to share knowledge and boost opportunities for raising awareness. It will bring stakeholders together to create a stronger collective voice for those with disabilities and offer a new platform for these communities in Kingston.

It was wonderful to be among so many dedicated people working for organisations committed to amplifying the voices and advocating for the rights of people with disabilities. There was a real sense of purpose and commitment as we discussed how we can work even more closely together through the new network to increase awareness and understanding of the issues for disabled communities living in and connected to our borough, and create real change where needed.

The network has been developed by the council in partnership with local organisations thanks to funding from the GLA and London Councils. Kingston is one of 13 London boroughs awarded funding to develop innovative community engagement projects that ensures Londoners’ voices are heard by decision makers.

The establishment of the network is part of the council’s work to create a fairer Kingston. You can find out more about how you can get involved and read about the network’s next steps on Kingston Council’s “kingston.gov.uk” website.

I am passionate that this mission to make our borough a fairer, even more inclusive place is something we must continue to strive for. We must not be complacent as there is always more we can do to make sure all our communities have the opportunities to live happy, healthy and fulfilling lives.

www.kingston.gov.uk/neighbourhood-community-safety/kingstons-disability-network