KEIGHLEY man Paul Anderson, one of the hardest-working figures in the district’s voluntary and community sector, has died.

Paul fought Multiple Sclerosis throughout his life but still devoted much of his time to supporting other vulnerable people.

As a wheelchair user he knew at first hand the challenges facing disabled people, and gave them a voice through his membership of many local and regional organisations.

As well as campaigning and activism, Paul was heavily involved in grassroots groups set up to enable disabled people to help each other.

Paul, who lived in Riddlesden with wife Joyce, died in hospital on Tuesday last week after a short illness.

He had spent several decades working with voluntary groups, mostly at a district level, and sat on several strategic working groups and boards.

A long-time member of Bradford MS Society, he spent almost a decade as co-chairman of the Strategic Disability Partnership.

For many years Paul was project coordinator of Bradford-based CONTACT Peer Support, training disabled people to use their experiences to help others.

In 2015 he was instrumental in the merger of three Bradford disability organisations to form Equality Together, where he held the position of Peer Support and Advocacy Manager until taking redundancy in November 2018.

A spokesman for Equality Together expressed sorrow and sadness at Paul’s passing.

The spokesman said: “For over 20 years Paul was at the forefront of working on behalf of disabled people throughout the district, ensuring their voice was heard and valued.

“Putting the needs of disabled people first and foremost was Paul’s primary drive and passion. He ensured that the voice of individuals was listened to, but more importantly valued, in relation to the planning, development and delivery of services.

“He was an active campaigner in relation to the impact of austerity plus health inequalities that disabled people were facing across the district.

“Paul was a true gentleman and a fantastic human being that will be greatly missed by his friends and colleagues at Equality Together. His presence will be missed by disabled people from across Bradford.”

Sasha Bhat, head of mental well-being with Bradford Council and the district NHS, said Paul had played a vital role in raising awareness about people’s needs and improving access to services.

Sasha added: “Paul’s courage, actions and commitment to advocating for people has changed and touched people’s lives. He contributed massively to transforming the way our health and care services are provided.

“He was a true activist against inequality and injustice. On a personal level, Paul was a funny, caring and intelligent man and I will always remember his solidarity and kindness.”