Last week marked a proud and historic moment for Liverpool as Lord Mayor Cllr William Shortall was sworn in at Liverpool Town Hall on Wednesday 13 May.
As the first wheelchair user to serve as Lord Mayor in the city’s 816-year history, Cllr Shortall’s appointment highlights a changing Liverpool and the importance of inclusion, accessibility and representation.
Following his historic inauguration, the Lord Mayor visited Greenbank to look around and meet learners and users from both Greenbank College and Greenbank Sports Academy. He was welcomed by Mary Beaumont, Chief Executive, and Tracey Murphy, Chair of Trustees.
The pictures show the Lord Mayor meeting learners and users from across Greenbank College and Greenbank Sports Academy during his visit.
Cllr Shortall is a proud Liverpudlian who has worked in public service for many years and has consistently spoken up for better access for disabled people, including through the Corporate Access Forum. He also served as a trustee at Greenbank for over six years.
We are especially proud that the Lord Mayor has chosen The Greenbank Project as his charity for the year. Through Greenbank College and Greenbank Sports Academy, Greenbank particularly supports disabled people to build skills, confidence, physical activity, movement, independence and opportunity.
Mary Beaumont and Tracey Murphy will also sit on the Lord Mayor’s Charity Group, supporting activity throughout the year.
The Lady Mayoress, Marie, will support the Lord Mayor during the year, with their daughters, Melissa and Laura, also helping as consorts.
Over the year ahead, the Lord Mayor’s role will help shine a light on people and organisations working to make Liverpool more accessible, inclusive and welcoming for everyone.