A charity has been recognised for its part in supporting people from minority groups to take part in elections.

Harrow Mencap has been shortlisted for the Diversity Champion of the Year Award as part of National Democracy Week.

The charity’s work ahead of local and general elections has been recognised by the National Democracy Week Council Members and the Cabinet Office.

The award is for those who have increased diversity in the democratic process and electoral systems by ensuring every member of society has an equal chance to participate - in particular those from under-registered groups, including young people, BAME groups, British ex-pats, and people with disabilities.

The shortlisted organisations attended an award ceremony hosted by minister for the constitution, Chole Smith MP and the Cabinet Office.

Deven Pillay chief executive officer of Harrow Mencap said: “We were delighted to have been shortlisted for the Diversity Champion Of The Year Award, it is great that the work we do to allow Harrow residents to speak directly to local members of parliament has been recognised in this way.

"We have been giving individuals, carers and families a voice for many many years, led on numerous campaigns both locally and nationally which has led to policy changes and improved outcomes for people.

"As the main campaigning organisation for people with learning disabilities in Harrow It is important that we enable local voters to interact directly with MPs and political candidates about issues affecting them in their day to day lives."

Mencap is a UK charity that supports people with learning difficulties, and their families and carers.

Visit www.harrowmencap.org.uk or call 020 88698484/ 020 84237382 for more information about the charity.