Welcome to the Disability Access Symposium 2026
About This Webcast
Sir Stephen Timms was appointed Minister of State in the Department for Work and Pensions, and the Department for Education, on 8 July 2024. He was elected as the MP for East Ham in July 2024. Minister of State (Minister for Social Security and Disability) Disability policy and x-Gov responsibility for disabled people Health and disability reform Universal Credit and Legacy Benefits Delivery Contributory Benefits, Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA), and Employment and Support Allowance (ESA) Carer’s Allowance (CA) Housing Access to Work ALB: Health and Safety Executive Serious Case Panel Uprating and Benefit Cap Oversight of Disability Unit (DU) Should you have any queries, do not hesitate to contact us at digitalevents@cii.co.uk
Speakers
The Rt Hon Sir Stephen Timms MP
Sir Stephen Timms was appointed Minister of State in the Department for Work and Pensions, and the Department for Education,on 8 July 2024. He was elected as the MP for East Ham in July 2024.
Edward Grant
Chartered Financial Planner
Edward “Eddie” Grant is a passionate advocate for the financial planning profession, with over three decades of experience dedicated to fostering trust, consumer confidence and professional excellence in financial advice. Throughout his career, he has championed mentorship, spearheaded key initiatives, and worked tirelessly to elevate the profession. A staunch supporter of apprenticeships and lifelong learning, Eddie has played a pivotal role in expanding access to MBA, MSc, and PhD programs in finance for Chartered professionals. His contributions to the establishment of the Finance in Society Research Institute (FISRI) reflect his commitment to insightful, data-driven research as a catalyst for progress across the profession. As a Chartered Financial Planner and Fellow of the Personal Finance Society, Eddie earned his master’s in finance in 2021, focusing on the critical role of professional qualifications in supporting clients in vulnerable circumstances. His leadership credentials include serving as past president and longest-serving non-executive board member of the Personal Finance Society (PFS), CII Pension Trustee, CII Professional Standards Committee Member, Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Insurers, and former Director of Technical Connection, a leading authority in tax, trust, and pensions, providing expert responses to over 500,000 queries annually. Beyond the profession, Eddie has been married to Marina for over 36 years. His curiosity and passion extend beyond finance—he is now a qualified Tea Sommelier, dedicated to guiding others in discovering the wonders and health benefits of loose-leaf tea.