At the heart of human rights lies a simple yet powerful idea: everyone has the right to shape the decisions that affect their lives. From decisions about our education, work and healthcare, to the laws, policies and systems that affect the society we live in – participation isn’t just a principle, it’s a right. 

At Just Fair, we’re committed to the values we advocate for. That means ensuring participation is not just something we talk about, but something we build into everything we do. 

For the past two years, the Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG) has been helping Just Fair learn, adapt and stay accountable to the communities we serve by exploring new ways to embed participation in our approach. 

Our new members 

In April 2025, the LEAG welcomed two new members into the group – Jenny and Maggie. After five months of their involvement, one thing is clear: the LEAG has become even stronger. 

In the work of the LEAG, the insights offered by Jenny and Maggie combined with the rich knowledge the other, longer serving, members provide are invaluable to Just Fair on its journey towards a more participatory, rights-based way of working. 

To share a deeper insight into the LEAG experience we sat down with Jenny to talk about her experience so far as a member of the LEAG.  

1. What motivated you to join the LEAG? 

Joining the Just Fair Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG) has been a truly inspiring experience that’s deepened my understanding of human rights and reinforced my commitment to making a difference. As a disabled woman and mother of two disabled children, I’ve encountered numerous barriers within health, education, and social care systems. These experiences motivated me to use my knowledge and lived experiences to drive meaningful change. 

Over the years, I’ve worked with Disabled People’s Organisations and contributed to local Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) reforms. These efforts have always been centred around rights-based solutions, shaped by genuine experiences. Volunteering as a school governor, supporting the Samaritans, and advocating for LGBTQ+ rights have given me a broad perspective on inequality and social justice.

2. How has your LEAG journey been so far? 

Being part of the LEAG has shown me the meaningful impact of Just Fair. I didn’t realise the full scope of their efforts until I became involved. By participating in initiatives like the UK Economic, Social and Cultural Rights Network, I’ve seen firsthand how vital ESC rights are for everyone. The progress made so far by this network and its members is encouraging, and it motivates me to contribute further. 

3. What was it like to meet as the LEAG in-person in July? 

Meeting fellow LEAG members in person during our July visit to London was a highlight. Everything was accessible, and I felt warmly welcomed. We discussed governance, strategy development, and shared experiences with other groups like Unfold’s Youth and Women’s Advisory Councils. The day reignited my passion for strengthening accountability and advancing human rights in the UK. 

4. What would you like to achieve over the coming months/year? 

Looking ahead, I’m eager to support Just Fair in realising ESC rights for all. My goal is to ensure that people’s lived experiences shape the organisation’s work, influencing initiatives and offering tangible solutions. In this way, I take to heart the view that respecting human rights requires people to actively claim them and take responsibility in their roles as engaged citizens and consumers. For me, that means continuing to grow and to use my voice in spaces that drive systemic change. 

I also plan to continue learning about human rights so I can better contribute both in my role at Just Fair and in my broader community efforts. 

This journey has been incredibly rewarding, and I look forward to the meaningful change we can achieve together.  

Thank you, Jenny, for sharing your reflections on your LEAG journey.  

Over the next six months, the LEAG will continue to support Just Fair on its journey towards greater participation by using their own lived experience testimony to complement Just Fair’s campaigning, advocacy and communications work. The LEAG will be telling their stories on their own terms and integrating these across the work Just Fair does.  

Background image by Alina Marinescu