A DISABILITY campaigner was the toast of Westminster when a government minister thanked him for helping to mould the biggest special educational needs reforms in a generation.

Corey Scott, 21, who has cerebral palsy and uses a wheelchair, was one of Children and Families Minister Edward Timpson’s guests of honour at a Department for Education reception in Lancaster House to mark landmark policy changes.

In the lead-up to the reforms, Corey, from Helmshore, regularly met Department for Education officials in their Westminster offices.

During the visits he gave feedback on ideas and told the government what was needed by the special educational needs and disability (SEND) community.

Corey said: “I just feel overwhelmed at what I have managed to achieve.

“I’m really proud to be involved.

“I have a real passion for politics and I have to pinch myself when ministers are talking about the documents that I have an impact on.

“I hope the reforms will provide a universal platform for dignity and fairness to all through community cohesion and equal opportunity.”

Corey became involved in shaping the reforms due to his membership in the Council for Disabled Children’s ‘EPIC’ group, which stands for Equality, Participation, Influencing and Change. He has been a member of the group since October 2012.

As well as discussing the reform with the government, they have also created films and leaflets to update other children with SEND about the reforms.

Mr Timpson said: “I’m delighted and humbled by the determination and hard work of everyone involved in shaping these reforms.

“Corey has helped us to deliver reforms that will help millions of children who have special educational needs.”