Guidance

How to apply

Updated 23 July 2025

Applies to England

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This publication is available at /government/publications/apply-to-join-a-regional-stakeholder-network-for-disabled-people/how-to-apply

1. Background

The Regional Stakeholder Network (RSN) was set up in 2019 by theÌýDisability UnitÌý(DU). Its main purpose is to champion the rights of disabled people.ÌýIt aims to make sure the voices and views of disabled people across England are at the heart of the work of the UK government.

The RSN ensures that disabled people have a routine route through which they can discuss the issues facing disabled people in their region. It provides a way in which they can share their insight into specific strands of government-led work.

There are 9 regional groups in England:

  • North West
  • North East
  • Yorkshire and the Humber
  • West Midlands
  • East Midlands
  • South West
  • South East
  • East of England
  • Greater London

Each regional network consists ofÌýa chair and betweenÌý10 to 40 members made up of local disabled people, parents and carers of disabled people and disabled people’s representative organisations.

They meetÌýregularly,Ìýat least 4 times a year. The meetings provide an open forum to share views and experienceÌýofÌýpolicies and services that affect disabled people.

2. How to apply

You must apply directly to your local Regional Stakeholder Network chair if you want to join your local network.

Please either:

2.1 Contact details

Please return your completed application to your local network chair:Ìý

Contact disabilityunit@cabinetoffice.gov.uk for other formats.

2.2 If you are using the application form

Download an application form from the Documents section.

Complete the application form and send it by email to the return address.

2.3 If you are not using the application form

Please send the following information either in a document (for example, Word or Google) or in an email.

About you

Please tell us:

  • your name
  • your organisation (if relevant to the RSN)
  • your email address
  • your telephone number
  • why you would like to be part of your local Regional Stakeholder Network – this willÌý help us understand why you are applying to be a member, and you may want to tell us about your own or someone else’s lived experience of disability

Meetings

Please answer the following questions:

  • are you happy to attend the Network meeting virtually at least once every 3 months?

  • are you happy to take part in the Network online or by other means throughout the year?

  • do you need any communication adjustments when attending a meeting?

  • do you need any other adjustments when attending a meeting?

  • do you have any dietary needs if you attend a meeting in person?

2.4 Data protection

We need your permission to use your data so you can take part as a member of your regional RSN.

Are you happy for the Disability Unit or your RSN chair to keep your details on a database?

The Disability Unit and your RSN chair will use email as the primary way of communicating with you. Please let us know if you need another method of communication.

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