My name is Richard Keagan-Bull. I am a 51 year old man with a mild learning disability. I have grown up with support from my family and different organisations over the years. I am supported by the L’Arche Community in London. My life has been full, with lots of interesting things. There have been hard bits, low bits and good bits. I am a Research Assistant at Kingston University with Irene Tuffrey-Wijne’s team. I was included on The Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 List 2021. My life story was published last year. I am excited about this! It's called “Don't Put Us Away”.
This is a painting about how I think Social Care SHOULD be. It should be about love and not just money. The two hands are showing a sign of friendship and support. The river is showing a sign that it’s not just straight forward like that. There are barriers that can get in the way - you do your job, support someone, go home and then you don’t have contact with each other. All people really want to be is loved and valued. It’s important to have friends. People with a learning disability don’t always get that side of care.
