Merton CIL is a grassroots organisation run and controlled by

disabled people.We aim to ensure disabled people

take control over their lives and achieve full participation in

Merton & the wider society.

Celebrating Independent Lives

Our Aims To promote the independence and inclusion of disabled •and deaf people in MertonChallenge discrimination facing disabled and deaf •people in MertonEncourage disabled and deaf people and supporters to •achieve change locally

Merton CIL will celebrate the broad diversity of disabled and deaf people whatever their ethnic background, age, gender, sexual identity as well as people with mental health needs who often face additional barriers to inclusion.

MembershipWho can become a member?

Any disabled or deaf person, carer, or supporter who subscribes to the aims of Merton CIL

How can I join?By completing a membership form available from our website, by email or by phone

What do I get as a member?Membership entitles you to receive regular updates, to have a say in our work, and to vote at annual general meetings of the CIL

Why is it important to become a member?The more members we represent the more powerful our combined voice when it comes to advocating for services to better meet our needs

Peer Support ProgrammeWe are training up local volunteers with lived experience of disability to offer support and coaching to disabled and deaf people in Merton. We do not make decisions for you, but help you to set goals and take the steps you want to take in your own way and your own time. Contact us to apply, no referral needed.

Information and Advice ServiceWe are developing an advice and information service for disabled and deaf people in Merton and their carers and supporters. This will include outreach surgeries around the borough and we can visit you at home if needed. Find out more on our website.

Future PlansWe are guided by the needs and opinions of our members. Please get in touch to share your views

Why do You Need a CIL?We believe in the social model of disability, which means that when we talk about disabled people, we mean how society disabled us by the way that it treats and excludes us, whatever our impairment. We focus on how and where society fails to include disabled and deaf people through disabling attitudes and barriers, and we aim to reduce those barriers.

What can a CIL do?Provide information and support•To increase independence•To support members to have their voices heard•Champion the right to fully participate in life and •exercise choice and control

Merton CIL is a company limited by guarantee. Company number 7645926Working towards registered charitable status

Contact UsTofindoutmoreaboutwhatwedo,orhowyoucanget

involved, contact Lyla: @MertonCIL

Mertoncil

Merton.cil

0744 936 2233

info@mertoncil.org.uk

www.mertoncil.org.uk