Hi readers, it’s just Kerry and William here this week, as Emily couldn’t join us. We are sitting outside the Brewhouse, enjoying the sunshine, as it’s due to rain again tomorrow.
We have just realised this is the 500th Our View article we’ve written for the Echo. That means we have been writing for nearly 10 years, which is amazing!
It all began thanks to Catherine Bolado, a former journalist with the Echo, who helped us start our Tuesday column. The editor agreed, so I, William, started writing the column with my friend Adam. When he stepped down, Emily came on board, followed by me, Kerry. And here we are today, still loving writing about everything from politics, disabilities or the environment to sandwich fillings, smelly jobs and friendships.
I, William, feel very happy, proud and accepted to be part of writing so many columns. We are wondering, could William be the longest writing columnist with a learning disability in any newspaper worldwide? It would be interesting to find out!
I, Kerry, really enjoy being part of the column, especially seeing what a positive change it’s had for William, who has come out of himself so much more. As for me, William, I like being part of this small group. I’ve got to know Kerry and Emily much better, and now have solid friendships with them both.
We wanted Emily’s thoughts, as it’s a special column, so Laura messaged her. I, Emily, like writing in the Echo because it makes me proud and accepted in what we do. We write whatever we want and don’t feel judged. It gives me a sense of worth, acceptance and makes me feel we make a difference for ourselves and other people with a learning disability.
The writers of the Our View column are supported in their editing by People First Dorset - a charity led and run by people with learning disabilities with support from staff
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