Flying the flag for learning disabilities
Mark Johnson from Hatfield in Doncaster is a Service User Governor for Learning Disabilities, at Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust (RDaSH). He has been helping to make a difference to the health and care services people with a learning disability receive in the wider community.
Mark said: “It doesn’t matter what your ability or disability, everything is possible. I do my very best to suggest changes to make things easier for other people who have a learning disability.
“Many people who come into hospital or other places for their care may bring their carer with them. By just talking to the person rather than their carer can make a difference and boost self-worth. Making small changes can greatly help those with learning disabilities to live their lives to the full potential.”
As well as being a foundation trust governor Mark’s achievements include being the Secretary of the Choice for All Doncaster community group. He was the first person with a learning disability to be elected to Hatfield Parish Council and he is planning to stand as Deputy Major in 2024.
Other accolades include being awarded Tenant of the Year at the 2022 Housing Heroes awards by Golden Lane Housing (GLH). Mark signed up to the More Voices, More Choices to help GLH achieve its vision. He has become Chair of the committee and involved in many projects including helping to co-produce GLH’s three-year plan.
Mark is also involved in health promotion and delivering training for the Royal Mencap Society and for Sheffield Hallam’s Partners in learning course for social work students, trainee paramedics and nurse prescribers to help them understand the needs of people with learning disabilities.
He has offered advice on the Government’s strategic review of the new housing strategy for supported living for people with learning disabilities.
In his spare time, Mark is a keen footballer and attends Fit Rovers at the Keepmoat Stadium, takes part in charity football matches, as well as looking after his mum.
