Leeds VCSE Sector Responds to Professor Jason Arday’s Death

Community organisations express condolences and highlight ongoing challenges

The Doing Good Leeds Partnership has issued a statement following the tragic death of Professor Jason Arday, extending condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. The partnership reflects on the impact of his life and the broader societal issues his death has brought to attention.

Remembering Professor Jason Arday

Professor Jason Arday was recognised as a talented Black and disabled academic, advocate, and role model. His work and commitment to social justice inspired many within academia and the voluntary, community, and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. The partnership emphasises his inherent human value beyond his professional achievements.

Addressing Racism and Ableism

The statement highlights that Professor Arday’s death underscores the ongoing presence of racism and ableism in society. It notes the intense media and public scrutiny he faced and stresses the importance of understanding, compassion, and space for individuals to recover and begin anew.

Doing Good Leeds calls for honest conversations and trauma-informed support within the VCSE sector, not only for those receiving support but also for the sector’s workforce. The partnership organisations—Forum Central, Voluntary Action Leeds, and Leeds Older People’s Forum—affirm their commitment to anti-racism and tackling ableism.

Support and Resources for the VCSE Sector

Several initiatives and networks are available to support individuals and organisations within the Leeds VCSE sector, including:

• Listening Session: An online facilitated session for the Leeds VCSE workforce was scheduled for 25 August, coordinated by Forum Central and Synergi-Leeds.
• Culturally Diverse Hub: A platform for individuals to connect with culturally diverse organisations and engage in anti-racism work.
• Learning Disability Network: A network of third sector learning disability organisations in Leeds providing peer support and service improvement.
• Synergi-Leeds: A citywide network addressing ethnic inequalities in mental health, supporting the Leeds All-Age Mental Health Strategy.
• Cultural Competency Training: Training is recommended for organisations, with local providers such as Primose Consultancy Yorkshire.
• Mental Health Support: Resources such as MindWell for adults and MindMate for children and young people offer support across Leeds.
• Change the Narrative Campaign: A city-wide anti-stigma initiative working to improve understanding and responses to mental health.

Further Reading and Reflection

The partnership shared a reflective article titled “Interweave Love Into Our Society” by Disability Rights UK, which discusses themes relevant to the issues raised by Professor Arday’s death.

For more information and updates, visit the original statement on the Doing Good Leeds website.

Source: Doing Good Leeds