Ashley Pearce The London Buddy Scheme Bio

As the Founder and now the CEO of The London Buddy Scheme C.I.C. (Community Interest Company) 

 

Ashley’s own lived experience as a visually impaired and neurodiversity individual, who grew up in a disabled persons family, went through the Special Education Needs and Disability (SEND) educational system. Who has faced direct and indirect social barriers, bias which disabled people are still having to navigate and face in society today, as places are still inaccessible and partly non-inclusive places for disabled people, to this day.

 

Ashley has excelled himself by representing his country in running and swimming which has aided him in honing his creativity,  educational and employment skills to where Ashley is today. Of being the CEO of The London Buddy Scheme.

 

The London Buddy Scheme has developed over many years of Ashley's own lived and professional experiences. From his own disability community barriers, his own perceptions, to his own experiences of representing pan disability individuals and their communities. As a Trade Union representative, to holding, volunteer and employment roles as an independent advocate and in various disability supporting 

 roles in the health, social care, leisure and educational sectors, that required advocacy diplomacy and modeling disability achievements. Through consultancy and campaigning for equality to introduce best practice procedures.

 

Which has provided him with the skills, knowledge and self belief that The London Buddy Scheme can play a vital role within society to break down social injustice, accessible barriers and demonstrating what can be achieved with the right support, adaptation and services. By using a combination of Ashley’s practical skills. The London Buddy Scheme's partnerships, collaborative &  lived experiences.  By using a holistic and modeling of disability approach, to collectively empower our pan disability beneficiaries, through campaigning, handholding and meaningful education and employment opportunities. For us disabled people to be fully recognised, engaged and induced in society. 

“Your mission and buddy system sounds incredible, what you’re doing to help people be as active and inclusive in their lives is really amazing all from your own personal challenging situation – you are inspiring.”

“I am delighted to provide this testimonial for Ashley Pearce The Founder of the Lindon Buddy Scheme, in recognition of his significant contributions to Action on Disability (AoD) and the wider co-production landscape.

Ashley successfully completed AoD’s Disability Equality & Co-production Course, demonstrating a deep understanding of disability rights, inclusive practices, and the principles of co-production. His dedication to championing accessibility and meaningful change has led him to actively engage in various co-production projects, including the Hammersmith & Fulham HASPAC Committee,  NHS co-production and various other initiatives, where he has played a key role in shaping policies and services that directly impact Disabled people.

More recently, Ashley’s unwavering commitment has been recognized through his appointment as an AoD Trustee, a testament to his reliability, leadership, and the value he brings to the organization. His passion, enthusiasm, and dedication to fostering inclusive communities are evident in all of his work, making him an invaluable advocate for co-production.

 Ashley has also been a proactive and thoughtful contributor to AoD’s Co-production Peer Support Group, where his insightful contributions

have strengthened discussions and initiatives aimed at improving independent living for Disabled people. His work in developing the London Buddy Scheme is a reflection of his commitment to ensuring that Disabled people have access to the support and networks they need to thrive.

 Ashley is passionate, enthusiastic, committed, and reliable, always bringing energy and a collaborative spirit to every initiative he takes on. I have no doubt that his leadership and vision will continue to drive meaningful impact. I wholeheartedly support his endeavors and look forward to seeing the London Buddy Scheme grow under his guidance”.

I have had the pleasure of working with Ashley Pearce over the past couple of years, and his contributions to the Kingston Disability Network have been invaluable. 

As a key member of our KDN, Ashley consistently brings fresh, innovative ideas to the table, offering insightful items for our agenda that spark meaningful discussions. His ability to turn these discussions into practical actions has greatly enhanced the effectiveness of our sessions.

Ashley’s proactive approach and willingness to go above and beyond are truly commendable. He has even offered to help form a working group to further develop and strengthen our network, showcasing his dedication and commitment to the cause. His enthusiasm and skills make him a standout asset to our team, and I am confident that his business plan, 'The London Buddy Scheme,' will lead to much success and will help many people. 

We are incredibly grateful for his continued support and look forward to seeing the impact he will make in the future, in this new venture.’