John’s story
“I was interested in improving people’s lives”
John Attrill talks about a life shaped by independence, history, and campaigning for fairness. Born in Portsmouth in 1944, he grew up quietly and found confidence through learning, work, and public service. John has lived independently for many years and has spent his life advocating for people with learning disabilities, especially around access to paid work and proper support. A lifelong lover of history, he is proud of his role in improving local services and challenging attitudes that hold people back.