My Churchill Fellowship Research
Fifteen Years of Learning and Influence
Fifteen years ago, in 2011, I undertook an international social policy research project through what was then the Winston Churchill Memorial Trust, now known as The Churchill Fellowship.
I travelled across the United States and Canada to explore best practice in supporting disabled people. My research focused on advocacy, employment, community inclusion, transition into adulthood, support for families, and access to government-funded support.
The purpose of the research was to bring learning back to the United Kingdom and help influence how disabled people are supported. It also strengthened my commitment to person-centred approaches, self-advocacy, choice, control and the belief that disabled people should be able to shape their own lives.
This learning continues to influence the social policy, advocacy and awareness-raising work of Your Support Matters today.
Where I Visited
Washington, D.C.
In Washington, D.C., I met with national advocacy organisations and government departments to understand the legislative framework for disability rights and how federal policy translates into local support.
Minneapolis and St Paul
In Minnesota, I explored world-leading examples of inclusive employment and community-based support, seeing first-hand how disabled people are supported to live independent lives within their own communities.
Toronto, Canada
In Toronto, my research focused on family leadership and support networks, learning how families can be empowered with knowledge and peer support to better advocate for their loved ones.
New York
In New York, I visited pioneering organisations that specialise in person-centred planning and self-advocacy, witnessing how individualised support can truly transform expectations and outcomes.
What the Research Explored
The research considered how support could move away from low expectations and traditional social care services, and instead:
- recognise people’s strengths, gifts, interests and ambitions;
- provide advocacy before someone reaches a crisis;
- support people to become effective self-advocates;
- create employment opportunities around an individual’s abilities;
- plan properly for the transition into adult life;
- support families with knowledge and leadership development; and
- enable disabled people to participate fully in community life.
The report concluded with a commitment to use the learning within Bury and across the country, encourage more person-centred services, and influence local authorities and national government.
William Case C.F. is available to deliver talks, guest lectures, workshops and conference presentations based on his Fellowship research and the developments that have taken place over the past 15 years.
Topics can include:
- person-centred support and planning;
- self-advocacy and disability rights;
- inclusive employment;
- independent living, choice and control;
- community inclusion;
- supporting families and disabled young people;
- social care policy and service improvement; and
- applying international learning within the United Kingdom.
Book William for a Talk
Each session can be tailored to universities, health and social care organisations, local authorities, voluntary organisations, professional teams and community groups.
To discuss a talk, workshop or guest lecture, please contact the Your Support Matters team.