Creating a STORM: Working together to fight stigma and stand up for the rights of people with learning disabilities

The Standing Up for Myself (STORM) research project at University College London aims to empower people with learning disabilities to stand up for themselves and challenge discrimination. The research team includes academics, researchers and people with learning disabilities. We call ourselves the STORM Expert Advisor’s Panel. The panel is a patient and public involvement group. Working with the researchers, as experts by experience, we share our views about how people with learning disabilities are treated and should be treated in society. We also help make sure the research is acceptable and accessible for people with learning disabilities to take part. We feel it is important for people with learning disabilities to have a voice, share their views, be listened to and have influence over things that matter to them.