Real Life Options Champion Joins Forces with Sheffield City Council to Celebrate Learning Disability Week

Sheffield, June 2025 – This year’s Learning Disability Week began with energy and purpose in Sheffield, thanks to a packed programme of events co-hosted by Sheffield City Council and local creative arts organisation, ArtWorks.

Among the standout contributors was Marie Knott, a proud Real Life Options Champion and employee at Sheffield City Council, where she works in the Commissioning Team. Marie, who is supported by Real Life Options, gave a heartfelt speech at the Town Hall on Monday 16 June, sharing how her lived experience shapes her work and her passion for improving services for others.

Marie has a learning disability and has worked for the council for several years. With support from Real Life Options, she’s grown in confidence and developed her skills, allowing her to thrive in her role. Her experience with Real Life Options has also inspired her to champion others with learning disabilities, helping to create more inclusive communities and workplaces.

“My job is about listening to people and giving them a voice,” Marie told the audience. As an expert by experience, she visits local services, offering insights and recommendations to ensure that the support people receive genuinely meets their needs.

Marie’s presentation resonated with many attendees, especially as she spoke openly about the challenges people with a learning disability face in securing meaningful, paid work. The discussion prompted calls for more inclusive employment opportunities and reminded everyone that a learning disability is just one part of who someone is – it doesn’t define them.

Staff and people supported by Real Life Options’ Sheffield Outreach team turned out in support, showing solidarity and pride in Marie’s role as a community advocate.

Kaylie Myers, Team Co-ordinator at Real Life Options Sheffield Outreach, said: “Seeing Marie speak with such confidence and purpose was inspiring. She shows what’s possible when people are given the right support and opportunities. The whole event was a moving reminder that everyone deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.”

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Do you see me?”, attendees took part in a sunflower-making workshop led by ArtWorks. The sunflower, a global symbol for non-visible disabilities, served as a fitting creative tribute to visibility, representation, and understanding.

The day also featured performances and talks from advocates and professionals, including: • Cllr Tom Hunt – Leader of Sheffield City Council • Terri-Leigh Kilner – Expert by experience and Co-chair of Sheffield’s Learning Disabilities Board • Kayleigh Cruickshank and Emma Harnett – ArtWorks South Yorkshire • Sam Clarke – Chief Executive, Learning Disability England

Jean Trench, CEO of Real Life Options, added: “A huge well done to Marie for her powerful contribution, and thank you to our Sheffield Outreach team for your continued support. Marie is a brilliant example of what it means to champion others. Together, you’re helping to shape a more inclusive and understanding Sheffield.”

Media Contact: Tania Turner

Email: tania.turner@reallifeoptions.org