As a dyslexic, I am probably not the best person to write anything as others are often much more gifted and fluent with the written word than me. As someone educated at a comprehensive school, I’ve enjoyed the benefits of a fairly well rounded education. As a survivor of child sexual abuse, I have gone through some struggles, and I know I am not the only one who has had to overcome impediments in order to cope with life. I really appreciate those who, for whatever reason, have had barriers (that I know in a truly Liberal Britain wouldn’t be in their way), and have been able to overcome and unlock their potential.

So many people in the Liberal Democrats have stories of overcoming adversity and making a difference. I believe that this is why many of us are part of Team Lib Dem. A good start to making a Liberal Britain would be to celebrate our Lib Dems members’ achievements and then invest in helping them to advance to whatever their next level is. We are the party of education and our human capital is our most precious asset. We have often worked our volunteers hard at by-elections, but if we give more thought to investing in them, then we can expect to earn dividends of a more Liberal future.

My vision for a Liberal Britain is one that is shared. One where everyone feels a part ownership of a society that we all can pull together for. One that represents our local area, be it rural or urban, and is both active nationally and internationally. One that celebrates the individual’s freedom within an inclusive and supportive community, in short, a Lib Dem family. Indeed, the idea of this collective movement for Human Rights, freedom, and fairness, makes me happy!

It remains all about putting people first, being centred in meeting their needs, and balancing competing demands. Equality includes targeting resources at those who need them most.

Liberal Democrats’ pragmatic attitude of getting things done and finding a way despite obstacles is our strength. Often we get too busy doing this to remember to communicate what we are doing. Too often in politics the best outcome on a contentious issue is a least worst decision with which many people are unsatisfied. At times like this communication, and the establishing of a shared understanding is vital, or people will only hear our critics to their, and our, shared deprivation.

We need to show that there is a better way, a Liberal alternative like Justin Trudeau is doing in Canada, and as Nick Clegg did in his rousing and passionate speech after the 2015 General Election results. Like our actionman leader, overcoming floods even at the cost of his car – he still comes to you to share the Social Democratic actions and Liberalism values that Tim Farron lives and breathes!

Inclusiveness – making special efforts to ensure everyone may participate and be enabled to contribute is important. Whoever you are, whatever your background experiences of learning disabilities, mental health, race, class, abuse, physical ability, sensory perception, HIV status, ex-offenders, whether you are struggling with addiction, comfortable, or in transition, are you ready to offer more to the community by stepping up and getting more involved in politics? I believe you are essential and you have a vital role in making Liberal Britain more Liberal.

We will create more opportunities to be viral in our contagious offer of helping others and inspiring people to find common cause to be fellow Lib Dems.

Unperturbed by adversity, austerity and apathy, together we can forge a Liberal Britain to be proud of!

* Mike Beckett is a charity campaigner and community leader from Yorkshire with a vested interest is putting people first.