Speakers

With over five decades of lived experience, David has been an astute advocate for individuals navigating healthcare challenges, particularly those living with physical disabilities. Since 2003, David has been a Patient | Carer Community Member at the University of Leeds and drawing from his personal journey of living with a long-term condition, since 1970, has provided mentorship rooted in empathy and personal insight, empowering others to embrace resilience, independence, and self-advocacy.

David has over 35 years’ experience of managing multidiscipline teams in both the electronic design & manufacturing industry and third sector. Currently, CEO of William Merritt Disabled Living Centre in Leeds, David leads a forward-thinking non-profit organisation committed to advancing health equity and creating inclusive communities in the third sector. Under his leadership, the organisation has become a trusted voice, offering essential services, guidance and support, to enable disabled people to remain independently mobile.

Drawing on both professional expertise and personal lived experience, David is an experienced patient mentor, deeply committed to advancing the role of patients in healthcare education, co-production, and empowerment. With a focus on integrating patient perspectives into clinical training, he has participated in healthcare curricula through the "Patient | Carer Community " model. Passionate about advocacy, he is dedicated to improving healthcare quality through shared learning and partnership, empowering future healthcare professionals to view patients as active contributors to their education and care delivery.

With a background in engineering, he has developed a strong interest in leveraging technology to enhance independent mobility and improve daily living for individuals with disabilities. His unique perspective as both a mentor and a long-time user of adaptive technologies allows him to offer guidance to others with practical solutions, while fostering self-sufficiency. 

David is passionate about helping others navigate challenges, advocating for accessible innovations, and promoting independence through technology.