We’re looking for people to take part in our cost of living steering group.

In April, Independent Lives was awarded funding by NHS Health Education England to look the inequalities faced by disabled people and carers in West Sussex because of the cost-of-living crisis.

We want to make sure that the people affected have a say in how the research is carried out. These people will form the steering group, who provide oversight, guidance and direction to ensure a project reaches its specific goals.

In this case, we’re looking for people with lived experience of disability and carers to offer their expertise and perspective, as well as help shape the strategic direction of the research and to provide feedback for every step of the project’s duration.

The group will be run face-to-face or online depending on participants preference and will take place every six weeks until May 2024. Participants will be reimbursed for every steering group they take part in.

If you would like to take part or would like more information, please email comms@independentlives.org with your answers to the following questions:

1. How has the cost-of-living crisis impacted you as a disabled person/carer?

2. Do you think more could be done to address how the cost-of-living crisis affects disabled people and carers? If yes, what?

3. What lived experience will you draw upon to share views and help influence the direction of this research?

If you don’t want to be part of the steering group but would still be happy to participate in the research, please get in touch. We’d love to hear from you. 

The deadline for steering group applications is 12 noon on Friday 25 August with a meeting to take place the week commencing Monday 28 August.

This June, Independent Lives held creative workshops online and in the Worthing area, giving participants the opportunity to share their experiences and creativity with the local community.

The words and stories shared as part of these workshops have been created into postcards, designed in collaboration with Independent Lives.

These free postcards are available to collect at various Worthing retailers and venues from July 2023 while stocks last, and for delivery to your home.

Independent Lives vacancies

Independent Lives is always looking for talented, caring people who can help us to grow as an organisation and support more people. 

As a Disability Confident Leader and Mindful Employer, we offer a guaranteed interview scheme to applicants who have a disability and meet the mandatory requirements set out in the person specification. 

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all, applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Our current vacancies include:

• Information & advice support adviser
• Healthcare support worker
• Field care supervisor

Upcoming Independent Lives training and events