Oxford Charity Founder Receives MBE for Advocacy Work

An Oxford-based charity’s founder and president, known for advocating on behalf of adults with learning disabilities, has been formally appointed as a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Michael Edwards, the individual who established My Life My Choice in 1998, received this recognition for his contributions to the community during a ceremony held at Windsor Castle in Berkshire on Tuesday. He expressed his enjoyment of “the jovial atmosphere” at the occasion, alongside engaging in conversations with fellow volunteers and members of the charity. My Life My Choice is also scheduled to commemorate his award at a dedicated event in January. Given his own experiences as a partially sighted individual with a learning disability, Mr. Edwards had previously stated the significance of establishing a user-led charity designed to empower individuals to manage their own lives autonomously. He identifies “getting justice for Connor” as one of the organization’s most significant achievements to date. Connor Sparrowhawk, aged 18, tragically drowned following an epileptic seizure at the NHS-operated Slade House in Headington in July 2013. A subsequent inquest determined that neglect played a role in his demise. Mr. Edwards conveyed his excitement regarding the opportunity to meet Prince William and inform him about the charity’s initiatives. “I wished his family well, especially him, the King, and the Queen. I wished them well for Christmas,” he stated. He also added, “People were talking to me and I met Simon Le Bon from Duran Duran”. Furthermore, the charity plans to host an event in January, bringing together learning disability advocates and crucial supporters to acknowledge Mr. Edwards’ accolade. Readers can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content of external sites. Details regarding our approach to external linking are available.