An Introduction to our Activities

Full Network Meetings
The Network runs a Forum called the ‘Full Network Meeting'
Dates for 2007 are:

Guest speakers are invited to most meetings. At recent meetings, Network members had the chance to listen to and question representatives from Solihull Primary Care Trust, Solihull Council's Economic Development Team, Solihull Social Services, CENTRO, Solihull Community Health Council and Microsoft, .

Action Groups
The Network also manages a series of Action and Discussion Groups which have been set up together with people from within the Network in order to progress work on specific issues. These groups meet once every 4-6 weeks and currently include:

• Transport Group (next meeting Wednesday 14th February 2007)
• Awareness Group (next meeting to be advised)
• Trains Accessibility Group (next meeting to be advised)
• Equipment Group (next meeting to be advised)
• Leisure Group (next meeting to be advised)

Consultation
The Network is often asked to take part in consultations, particularly by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, where there are opportunities to present coordinated and collective views on matters such as Social Services policy, Transport and Employment.

The Network also maintains contact with CENTRO and is working to build a network of contacts with Solihull providers.

Representation
The Network has taken up issues in response to complaints from individual members, particularly where there is an issue of general concern to be addressed. The Network has taken an interest in a wide range of issues from speed bumps, to the recognition of B.S.L. by local organisations, to the employment of an Eye Clinic Liaison Officer by Solihull and Heartlands Hospital.

Newsletter
The Network produces a quarterly letter, which updates members on the progress of activities, consultations, action groups and campaigns. Reader contributions are very welcome.

Signposting
When the Network is unable to help, it is often well placed to suggest someone who can.