Voice and Influence
Championing Disabled voices in Bristol
BDEF wants a future where Disabled people in Bristol are not only more included, but are active leaders in shaping the city’s policies, services and cultural landscape.
We want to make sure that voices of Disabled people are an essential part of decision making that impacts our everyday lives.
Meet Megan
Megan is BDEF’s Director and leads our Voice and Influence pillar.
What this looks like in our work
Advocating
Advocating for Disabled people to be valued and paid for sharing their lived experience and expertise.
Collaborating
Working with organisations across Bristol to make sure Disability Equality is included in policies, plans and decision-making.
LISTENING
Actively gathering ideas, experiences and feedback from Disabled people and BDEF members.
supporting
Helping to create a clear pathway from peer support and community conversations to representation in decision-making spaces.
What we're involved in
Chairing local networks
Our director, Megan, is currently chair of Bristol Disabled People Organisation Network (BDPON), and co-chairs Disabled People Strategic Transport Action Group (DPSTAG) alongside Councillor Ed Plowden.
Celebrating Disabled people
We successfully revived an annual celebration of Disabled people in Bristol International Day of Disabled People 2025 and Disability Pride 2026.
Championing Disabled voices
BDEF is currently represented on the One City Environment Board, CEO’s Against Hate, DPO Forum England, Bristol Community Cohesion Group, Equity Hubs amongst many more.
Ways to get involved
Become a trustee
Register your interest in becoming a trustee and be directly invovled in the running of BDEF.
Attend BDEF events
Attend one of our events and connect with us and other BDEF members.
Send us a case study
Send us any stories or experiences that you would like us to raise in the different meetings we attend. This could be transport, housing and much more.
Sign up for our monthly newsletter
Sign up for our monthly newsletter where we highlight opportunities for you to share your views.