Different ways of communicating. 

Equal right to be heard.

The voices of children, young people and adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) can often be absent from traditional consultations, engagement events and even the democratic processes many of us use to have our say.

There is already some great work happening to make engagement more meaningful and inclusive. Bold Voices wants to be part of that movement and help strengthen it across Greater Manchester.

Coming in 2027, Bold Voices will be our steering group, creating meaningful and accessible opportunities for people (all ages) with PMLD to communicate what matters to them - their choices, preferences, experiences and ideas - in the ways, places and moments that work for them.

There is no single way to have a voice. Communication might happen through movement, expression, eye gaze, vocalisation, objects, switches, AAC, behaviour or through the people who know someone well recognising and interpreting their communication. We want to listen differently and make sure what we hear travels further. Bold Voices will work to ensure voices are meaningfully captured and represented at a strategic level, helping to inform and influence the systems, services and opportunities that affect people’s lives. Because when systems are designed for people without being designed with them, important voices are missing.

Different communication should never mean less influence.

Want to be part of it?

If Bold Voices gets you excited, if you know a potential Bold Viber who would like to be involved or if you or your organisation would like to actively support this work, we would love to hear from you.

Whether you bring lived experience, ideas, expertise, connections or simply share our ambition to strengthen the representation of people with PMLD across Greater Manchester, please get in touch through our Contact page.

Bold Voices is coming in 2027.