Speak Out in Hounslow

Who we are

Speak Out in Hounslow is a local charity supporting people with learning disabilities and/or autism in the London Borough of Hounslow.

At Speak Out in Hounslow we help people to speak up for themselves, make choices, and have their voices heard. Our members guide everything we do — their views and experiences shape our work.

We support people to:

• Make their own decisions and build confidence

• Choose what they want their lives to be like

• Take part in their local community

• Be listened to by services and decision-makers

We believe services should be designed around what people want and need. Together, we help create positive change so everyone has a voice.

Our culture and values

Speak Out in Hounslow believes that people with learning disabilities and/or autism have the right to be heard, respected, and involved in decisions that affect their lives. We believe everyone should have choice, control, and equal access to their community.

Our work is led by the people we support. Our members shape our priorities, activities, and services, ensuring that everything we do reflects their lived experience and real needs. We promote independence by supporting people to speak up for themselves and make informed choices, rather than speaking on their behalf wherever possible.

We work in an inclusive, person-centred way that values dignity, respect, and equality. We use accessible communication, including Easy Read information.

We work collaboratively with families, professionals, and local services to influence positive change. We challenge barriers, raise awareness, and support improvements to services so they are designed around what people want and need.

Our working practices are grounded in co-production, empowerment, safeguarding, and continuous learning to ensure our support is effective, safe, and responsive.

Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Speak Out in Hounslow is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion. We treat everyone with dignity and respect and challenge discrimination. We use accessible communication and person-centred approaches so people can fully take part and be heard.

Safeguarding is central to our work. We have clear policies and procedures to protect adults at risk. Staff and volunteers are trained to recognise and respond to safeguarding concerns.