DISABLED youngsters are to be encouraged to speak up for themselves, help others and play a part in their communities.

The new Independent Youth Advocacy Forum will give a voice to 14 to 21-year-olds who have learning disabilities or autism.

The forum is the brainchild of People First Keighley and Craven which provides a range of services for people with learning disabilities.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Keighley councillor Abid Hussain, agreed to be the forum’s patron when he visited People First this month.

The charity, based in Springfield Mills, on Oakworth Road, recently won cash from Bradford Council to set up the forum.

A spokesman said: “The group will work towards becoming young people who can set personal goals, make choices, build self-esteem and find personal happiness.

“They will be empowered to speak up for themselves and others, understand their rights and responsibilities, and make make a difference as they play a full part in their own communities.”

Forum members will develop decision-making and thinking skills, set personal goals, develop opinions and challenge policymakers.

The young people will be trained through three-hour sessions held once a month for nine months, at People First’s base in Springfield Mills in Oakworth Road.

Back at school the young people will deliver assembly-type events to fellow students.

Staff member Jane Fisher said People First were delighted that Cllr Hussain agreed to be the project's patron.

She added: “He had a fun morning getting to know some of our members, finding out about our funding and how he can work with us to ensure our work continues across Bradford district, especially in Keighley.

"We also shared information about what People First Keighley and Craven do and how we support our local community with training, self-advocacy work and Healthy Me Learning Holidays.”

People First began in 2002 as a social group for young adults with learning disabilities, named the Out There Club.

The group, which is run by members with support from professional workers, has now expanded into providing advice and running campaigns.

Members train local organisations and businesses on how to best cater for people with learning disabilities.

People First has for several years campaigned to stop taxi drivers charging wheelchair users more for the same journeys as able-bodied people.

Anyone who thinks their child could be suitable for the Independent Youth Advocacy Forum should email julie.olsson@peoplefirstkc.com or call 01535 607222.