A conference celebrating self-advocacy for people with learning disabilities and autism is set to be hosted by a Dudley charity.

The Positive Voices conference, led by Dudley Voices for Choice, will welcome self-advocacy organisations from across the UK.

The event aims to share successes, focus on overcoming barriers, and agree on a shared plan for the upcoming year.

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Last year, more than 170 self-advocates from across the country attended the national conference, which highlighted the importance of self-advocacy and gave delegates the chance to learn about various projects across the country.

The initiatives aim to amplify the voices of people with learning disabilities and autism particularly, who are often excluded from significant policy decision-making.

The conference is a crucial platform for these individuals to collaborate, be heard, and instigate change.

In preparation for the event, the charity has been gathering insights from people across Dudley to ensure their views and experiences are represented.

The event is open to people with a learning disability, autism and their supporters.

While the conference is already fully booked, organisers say it remains an essential gathering for self-advocates to unite, share, and strategise for the future.

The conference will take place on Thursday, October 3, from 10am to 5pm at the Conference Aston, Aston University in Birmingham.