13th June 2025
At 31, Bradley George Wilson has dedicated half his life to championing the rights and voices of people with learning disabilities.
His journey began in 2012 as a volunteer, driven by a passion for providing safe, welcoming, and accessible environments for people with disabilities. His early involvement with Dance Syndrome, saw him set up a dance group for people with learning disabilities, but this was just the beginning. Recognising the need for more social opportunities, Bradley later established his own youth club. As members grew older, he adapted the group to continue serving them, evolving into a community hub that remains a vital social lifeline.
In 2015, Bradley founded Spring Into Phab, a multi-activity group run by volunteers – including individuals with learning disabilities – who are passionate about making a difference. As Club Leader and Chairperson, Bradley has led a dedicated team in organising monthly social outings across Lancashire – from pub nights and restaurant visits to cinema trips and bowling. Bradley’s dedication and determination ensured that Spring Into Phab not only survived, but thrived during the COVID-19 pandemic, and came out stronger (which is no easy feat!). Other highlights include Bradley securing National Lottery funding last year, and exciting plans for their upcoming 10th anniversary celebrations (watch this space…).
But Bradley’s immense contributions don’t end there. Since moving into his Making Space supported living flat in Lancashire in 2020, Bradley has played an active volunteer role within Making Space, a national social care charity. Encouraged by his Service Manager to join the Making Change Group, he quickly became a key figure in co-production across the organisation. From frequently chairing meetings, and regularly contributing valuable ideas towards their Leadership Strategy, to playing a key role in their annual People’s Awards.
Since 2021, Bradley has taken up many more impressive roles including:
- Being an Admin Officer, Board Member, and Co-Trainer at NWTDT (North West Training & Development Team) & Pathways CIC – delivering training sessions to professionals, helping them understand how to work effectively with people with learning disabilities
- In May 2024, Bradley began working with Together an Active Future (TaAF) on the Let Me Move workstream. This project focuses on co-designing solutions that make outdoor activities more accessible for disabled people, a cause he is passionate about
- Volunteering at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) as a member of the Service Users and Carers Forum
Since the age of 18, Bradley has been dedicated to advocacy, community-building, and creating inclusive spaces that empower individuals to be heard in health and social care. His work has transformed lives and strengthened support networks, making the world a better place, one step at a time.
I volunteer because I love meeting people like me and making services better for everyone. It’s important to share our experiences so professionals understand how to support people with learning disabilities. I get a lot of joy from helping others – it’s hard work, but it’s worth it!
Bradley G Wilson