Cloverleaf Advocacy has partnered with Hull Voice Group, a Hull-based group that runs self-advocacy meetings across the city. It supports people with learning disabilities to speak up, have their voices heard, and play a meaningful role in shaping the services and support they need.
Founded by Mark Smith, Hull Voice Group was created with a clear and powerful purpose: “I started the group because I wanted to help people with a learning disability have a voice — to be heard, to share their experiences, and to make Hull a better place for people with a learning disability.”
Since its creation, the group has grown into an active and supportive community, meeting every other week. Members come together not only to offer peer support, but also to work collaboratively on projects that raise awareness and challenge perceptions.
One of the group’s most exciting current projects involves working with playwrights to develop a theatre production based on their lived experiences. This creative approach offers a powerful platform for storytelling and will help audiences better understand the realities, challenges, and strengths of people with a learning disability.
Last year, the group also produced a series of podcasts aimed at professionals. These provide valuable insight into the experiences and needs of people with a learning disability, helping to improve understanding and influence more inclusive practice across services.
Hull Voice Group is funded by the Ideas Fund and works closely with the University of Hull. The group actively contributes to discussions around consent and ethical practice in research, ensuring that the voices of people with lived experience are included in how research is designed and delivered — an essential step towards more ethical and inclusive approaches.
Now, with the support of Cloverleaf, the group is looking to expand even further. A key focus is the development of self-advocacy ‘pods’ across Hull. These smaller, community-based groups will make it easier for more people to get involved and connect with others.
The group is particularly excited to create a dedicated pod for young adults with a learning disability. This will provide a space tailored to younger people, where they can explore self-advocacy in a way that feels relevant and supportive, helping to nurture the next generation of advocates.
Joanne Green, Director of Operations at Cloverleaf Advocacy, said: “We are delighted to be working alongside Hull Voice Group and developing these pods. By working together, we aim to build a stronger network of support, create meaningful opportunities, and continue shaping Hull into a more inclusive and understanding community.
This collaboration is more than just a partnership — it’s a shared commitment to ensuring that every person has the opportunity to be heard.”
