Enable May / June 2024

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GEORGE WEBSTER

Interview with the CBeebies presenter

The UK’s leading disability and lifestyle magazine

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May / June 2024

THE PRICE WE PAY

WHAT MAKES US TIC

The hidden costs of being disabled

Living with Tourette Syndrome

MAKING A DIFFERENCE MAFS star Jay Howard on disability advocacy, learning to love herself, and her plans for the future

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FRONT COVER IMAGE © JAMES MELIA / JAMESMELIA.COM

Welcome It’s time to enjoy the May/June issue of Enable magazine…

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COVER PRICE £3.00

PUBLISHER Denise Connelly denise@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITOR Melissa Holmes melissa.holmes@dcpublishing.co.uk STAFF WRITER Kate Stevenson kate.stevenson@dcpublishing.co.uk EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS Jane Hatton Cora Myers Samantha Renke Tim Rushby-Smith Alisdair Suttie DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Lucy Baillie lucy.baillie@dcpublishing.co.uk SALES Marian Mathieson marian.mathieson@dcpublishing.co.uk ENABLE MAGAZINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk

DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG Tel: 0844 249 9007

WINNER VOTED CONSUMER PUBLICATION OF THE YEAR ©DC Publishing Ltd 2024. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or used in any way without prior written permission from the publisher. The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of DC Publishing Ltd. The publisher takes no responsibility for claims made by advertisers within the publication.

Every effort has been made to ensure that information is accurate; while dates and prices are correct at time of going to print, DC Publishing Ltd takes no responsibility for omissions and errors.

hen Enable was founded in 2011, one of our main aims was to amplify the voices of disabled people, and share their lived experiences. Why? Because it helps stories to be heard, awareness to be raised, and supportive communities to be created. Those elements all interplay to help foster real change.

Those founding principles are still in play, especially in this issue. We hear from reality TV star and disability advocate Jay Howard, who’s doing an amazing job of representing limb difference, speak to people with Tourette Syndrome about their experiences, have a sitdown with social media sensation Lucy Edwards, get gritty with Gladiator Jade Ounsley, and catch up with CBeebies favourite George Webster.

Of course, it’s not all chat. We always focus on more difficult issues too, and this edition of the magazine is no exception. From investigating the extra costs of living with a disability, to articles looking at high street accessibility (or continued lack of!), adaptive fashion, and living with a non-visible disability.

This is your magazine, and we love to hear your stories and share your experiences. If you have an idea for something you’d like us to cover, get in touch via editor@dcpublishing.co.uk.

Melissa

Get in touch

@enablemagazine

Melissa Holmes | Editor editor@dcpublishing.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICKS...

35 UNSEEN 80% of disabled people have hidden disabilities.

From employment to using public toilets, I was shocked to hear about the discrimination some have faced.

54 THREADS OF CHANGE How the fashion industry and disabled entrepreneurs are creating an adaptive fashion revolution.

WIN

an Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet!

See page 46

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Call 0844 249 9007 or visit: enablemagazine.co.uk/subscribe

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What’s inside

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Interview

8 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Enable’s editor speaks to Married at First Sight’s Jay Howard about living with limb difference.

Health Cover story

28 THE POWER OF KINDNESS An exclusive chat with rugby star Jodie Ounsley, better known as Fury from Gladiators.

30 HOW DOES A BLIND GIRL…?

Q&A with blind social media sensation Lucy Edwards.

41 I’M NOT DOWN’S GEORGE CBeebies presenter and author George Webster talks to Enable’s Kate Stevenson.

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Voices

18 MAKING EDUCATION ADD-UP Tim Rushby-Smith on changes within inclusive education.

23 YOUR PERFECT PA Columnist Samantha Renke uncovers the ins and outs of hiring your own PA.

Cover story

52 A MARATHON EFFORT Richard Whitehead MBE and Dr Julie McElroy celebrate their London Marathon success.

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10 MOVE FOR MENTAL HEALTH How physical activity can help reduce stress and improve your overall health.

38 FINDING MY WAY Cora, a 13-year-old who is autistic, shares a day in her life.

Finance

16 THE PRICE WE PAY Cover Adding up the extra costs story of being a disabled person.

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Life

20 GET ABOUT… A BIT To mark Global Accessibility Awareness Day, our Editor considers access on the high street.

25 WHAT MAKES US TIC We interview two people with Tourette Syndrome about their day-to-day lives.

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Cover story

33 THE BEST START Can you become a foster carer when you’re disabled?

35 UNSEEN A look at accessibility and attitudes when it comes to people with less visible disabilities.

49 THE DIARY Our round-up of the latest events in the disability calendar.

50 PRODUCT PICK From gardening tool adaptations to sensory toys, we check out the latest buys.

54 THREADS OF CHANGE Adaptive fashion: what’s the latest?

Designers shed light on how they’re making accessible clothing.

Care

13 EMBRACING THE POSITIVES Whether it’s ensuring they get the care they need, or gaining a supportive new friendship group, we take a closer look at the positive aspects of being a carer.

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Employment

61 Q&A Employment expert Jane Hatton offers her tips on job hunting.

63 RIGHT FOR THE JOB Advice on accessing interviews, and what employers can do to improve the experience for candidates.

66 BORN TO STAND OUT Stand Out Socks explain how they’re leading an inclusive employment revolution.

Travel

44 CHASING THE SUN Advice, support and ideas to help you have the holiday of a lifetime if you’re travelling abroad this summer.

Motoring

58 MAZDA MX-30 Our motoring expert takes Mazda’s compact battery-powered SUV out for a test run.

WIN

WIN AN AMAZON FIRE HD 8 TABLET – SEE PAGE 46

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enable news

News

Gov plans are an “assault on disabled people”

THE UK GOVERNMENT HAS quietly scrapped the £100m Work and Health Programme which has helped 300,000 disabled people into work over the past seven years. Its replacement, Universal Support, will not be nationwide until summer 2025.

In the same week, the Prime Minister announced he wants to cut benefits for 420,000 sick and disabled people to force

them into work, as well as passing the job of writing sick notes from GPs to ‘work and health professionals’, and launching a consultation into Personal Independence Payment benefits.

James Taylor of Scope said Sunak’s welfare speech “feels like a full-on assault on disabled people”. The British Medical Association said the government should

focus on providing access to the medical care people need in order to return to employment, instead of “pushing a hostile rhetoric on ‘sicknote culture’.”

A general election will be held before the end of January 2025. To ensure you’re registered to vote, and have the required voter photo ID, visit www.gov.uk/ register-to-vote

FOOTBALL STARS TEAM ACCESSIBLE PLAYGROUNDS UP TO SUPPORT BSL NEAR YOU? FOOTBALLERS FROM THE FOUR Home Nations – including Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Ella Toone, Harry Kane, Lisa Evans, and Mary Earps – have teamed up with EE to upskill the nation in British Sign Language (BSL) and help everyone feel part of the football conversation.

The ‘Support. It’s In Your Hands’ campaign aims to keep the 87,000 BSL users in the Deaf community involved

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in the beautiful game, by encouraging the use of sign language in both Deaf and non-Deaf communities.

Stephen Hutchinson from The FA said: “We are delighted to be working with EE to empower all football fans to support people who are Deaf or have hearing loss.”

Check out www.eelearnsmart.co.uk to find bite-sized coaching sessions teaching football-themed BSL.

SCOPE HAS LAUNCHED ITS Playground Accessibility Map, a usergenerated project which saw more than 1,000 people visit play parks to check aspects like entry access, surface construction, and equipment.

12% of playgrounds visited were identified as likely to be accessible to disabled children. Check out www. scope.org.uk/campaigns/lets-playfair/playground-accessibility-map to find out how more than 1,000 playgrounds stack up for inclusivity, and find one near you.

smooth Keep things

by making the move to

Universal Credit It won’t be automatic, so look out for your letter telling you what you need to do and when. Find support and more information at gov.uk/ucmove

If you live in Northern Ireland search nidirect Move to Universal Credit

Eligibility criteria apply

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Jay Howard was the first disabled contestant to appear on Married at First Sight (MAFS). The 2023 TV show changed her life, and she’s helping improve awareness of people with limb differences. We caught up with Jay to chat about life after MAFS

You came across so well on the show; there was no ‘act’.

Rather than disabled people being put in a box, having this stigma of ‘oh they’re disabled, they can’t really do much’, I think I’ve helped change people’s perspective on that. I want people to ask me those awkward questions that nobody dares ask. Because I’m not offended – I want people to understand what it’s like to live as a limb difference individual.

How has being on the show changed you?

It took me a long time to accept who I am. The experts on the programme hold a mirror up to you, and you start seeing what others see. I did put myself down, and I still have my insecure days. But I’ve learned to love myself now. Before, I couldn’t say that.

Were you worried about online abuse due to being on the programme?

I was prepared for trolling, but I haven’t had one negative comment. At school I dealt with bullying – I used to laugh with them. I used to think if I took the mick out of myself, they’d laugh with me, not at me. I got bullied, I got chucked in bins, tied to a fence… I went through a lot, but I’ve never let it get to me.

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You’ve become something of a disability advocate…

I’ve been working with Reach, the upper limb difference charity, and have just been named as one of their ambassadors. They’re really good with families – it’s not just the kids that need help, it’s parents as well, coming to terms with having a child with limb difference. The majority don’t know about it until the child is born. It was a shock for my mum, 32 years ago. She didn’t really have any support. So I want to properly get stuck in with supporting Reach and making a difference, especially creating that support network for families, showing children what they can achieve, and making sure the children feel welcome into society.

And you recently attended the Power of Women Awards?

Yes! I won their Woman of Advocacy Award. I did my little speech which I was very nervous about, but I met so many amazing women there. It’s organised by Dress for Success, which is a charity that provides styling advice, clothing and interview preparation to support women into the workplace.

It’s all about becoming empowered and economically independent. The award really means a lot. I didn’t think I would ever be seen as an inspirational person; I never thought that people would be looking up to me. So it’s very overwhelming, in a good way. I feel very proud of myself – 12 months ago I could never have imagined this.

Tell us more about your recent trip to the House of Lords.

That was another amazing day, filled with amazing women. Women who’ve started from scratch, built businesses up from nothing to create something massive. We listened to different

people’s life stories and what they’ve been through. There were so many incredible women who’ve achieved so much with their lives – business leaders, CEOs, celebrities, influencers.

It was emotional; people came together to support and celebrate each other. And for me to be invited…

I thought to myself at the time, should I even be here? And it’s great to be able to represent the limb difference community. I’m so grateful!

What are your plans for the future?

I’m launching a podcast which will feature guests with different disabilities. I’ve recorded the first one, with Mollie from Traitors, who also has a limb difference. It went really well – we had a lighthearted chat about living with a stoma, and we talked about things the general public wants to know but are too scared to ask when it comes to disabilities. I’d say the aim is to be educational, but we’re having a laugh with it. We’ve got a really high calibre of guests on our wish list, so we might share funny dating stories or maybe talk about sex, because people think that disabled people don’t have sex. People think when you’ve got a disability, your life’s ended. But that’s not the case. We still live normal lives.

We still have the same experiences as everybody else.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Follow Jay on Instagram at @jay_howard or TikTok at @jayy_howard Keep an eye on Jay’s socials for news about her podcast launch date.

For support around upper limb difference, contact Reach via www.reach.org.uk or 0300 365 0078

PIC: © JAMES MELIA / JAMESMELIA.COM

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hat’s been the best thing to come out of appearing on Married at First Sight?

I’ve never seen myself as being an inspiration, but people from all over the world have been watching it and have said ‘You don’t understand how many people you’re helping, because of you being yourself, and sharing how you’ve managed your struggles’. I’ve had people asking me for advice and how to deal with certain situations – it’s been really fulfilling.

enable

interview I want people to ask me the awkward questions that nobody dares ask. I want people to understand what it’s like to live as a limb difference individual

If I’d said no to that first talk, none of this would be happening

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MOVE FOR

MENTAL HEALTH Focus on Mental Health Awareness Week, which takes place from 13 to 19 May, with a focus on moving more to improve your mental wellbeing

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ental Health Awareness Week has become one of the most recognised awareness events in the UK calendar. Since it was founded in 2001, it’s seen events take place in schools, universities, workplaces and organisations, along with specialist programming being broadcast by the BBC and other channels. Its aim?

To increase public understanding of mental health, and improve awareness of how mental health problems can be prevented.

Previous weeks have addressed issues like loneliness, anxiety and body image. For Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, the theme is movement, and the benefits that moving more can bring to our mental wellbeing.

HEALTHY BENEFITS

Physical activity can do great things for our mental health, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving sleep, fostering social connection, and boosting endorphins (the brain’s feelgood neurotransmitters).

Recommendations state that adults (including wheelchair users) should be getting at least 105 minutes of physical activity each week – that’s just 15 minutes a day. And physical activity can mean anything from doing the housework to a sweaty session at the gym or with your rehab physio.

Any kind of movement will benefit you, both physically and mentally. But getting involved in physical activity isn’t always easy when you have a disability, or if you’re struggling with depression.

FITNESS TO FEEL GOOD

Organisations like We Are Undefeatable and Mind offer helpful suggestions of how you can fit physical activity into your day. That might mean dusting the living room more vigorously, getting moving with friends or family, or taking part in an inclusive workout at home through the Every

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Body Moves website, for example.

Activities like strength training and tai chi may be more accessible than you expect, plus with any physical activity you may enjoy positive impacts on your daily functioning and pain levels.

It’s also worth speaking to your doctor to see if you can access ‘social prescribing’ such as a free or reduced price gym membership to help boost your mood and activity levels. Your local authority may also offer health walks which should be accessible and suitable for all levels of fitness.

And if you’re keen to try something really different, take a look online for adaptive fitness options in your area.

Just remember – be kind to yourself, go at your own pace, and make movement work for you.

Physical activity reduces stress and anxiety, improves sleep, fosters social connection, and boosts endorphins FOR MORE INFORMATION Activity Alliance (inclusive gyms, England only): activityalliance.org.uk Every Body Moves: everybodymoves.org.uk We Are Undefeatable: weareundefeatable.co.uk

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enable care

EMBRACING THE POSITIVES Being a carer can be a challenging experience – it can certainly take its toll, both mentally and physically. But there are many rewards too, as Editor Melissa Holmes uncovers

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here are some 5.7 million unpaid carers in the UK and, according to Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK: “The dedicated, committed support unpaid carers provide day in day out has been valued as the equivalent of a second NHS.” And, although it can seem an arduous, thankless task, being a carer brings

unexpected joys and rewards.

Amy is a parent carer for her six-year-old autistic (and suspected ADHD) son, Rudy. In addition to regular ‘mum stuff’, Rudy needs lots of additional support, as Amy explains: “Rudy is going through a tough time right now.

He has multiple meltdowns a day and needs 24/7 attention and coregulation.”

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Amy provides sensory activities throughout the day, and supports Rudy with all aspects of his hygiene and personal care. “There’s also a constant stream of paperwork, meetings, and appointments related to his care and education,” she reveals, “along with reading, research, and information gathering to better support him.

But I wouldn’t change him for the world, just the society we live in.”

DOUBLE DUTY

No one really chooses to be a carer – carers are often ‘forced’ into it by family circumstances, finances, or pure love. Some carers are on double duty – part of the ‘sandwich generation’ who are caring for disabled or unwell children while also caring for older parents.

There’s no denying it’s hard work on every level – from bed-sharing to toileting, appointments to attend and medication to give. But it does have incredible rewards.

For some, caring for our parents is a way of repaying all the love they gave us, and honouring the sacrifices they made for us.

I was at university hundreds of miles away from home when my mother was terminally ill (she insisted I carry on with my studies), so I did very little day-to-day ‘caring’ for her during her illness. I arrived home three hours before she died, and every moment of that day is etched in my memory.

MOMENTS OF CARING

As she lay in her bed, there was one thing she wanted: a cold flannel.

I wrung out the cloth and gently wiped her face. In that instant, my mind flashed back to those moments before cancer: shaving her legs in the bath, because her glasses would steam up, and she couldn’t see without them.

Holding her arm while we wandered round town, window shopping.

Her stroking my forehead with the backs of her fingers, her long nails cool against my temple, while singing me to sleep when I was little. All those moments of caring.

And here we were – my sisters, dad, family members, friends and I – doing what we could to make her final hours as comfortable as

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possible. It crossed my mind at that moment, that this final act of caring would stick with me forever.

It’s been 22 years, and I still remember it clear as day. Her mumbled gratitude as the cool cloth swept over her skin. The last thing I could do for her, after she’d spent 20 years giving her all for me.

DIGNITY

We care for them because we know them and love them – the story is similar for couples where one member becomes disabled or develops dementia, for example.

Amy and Rudy We want to support them to stay at home as long as possible, to give them care that’s tailored to them, and to ensure they’re being looked after with love and dignity.

The reassurance of knowing your loved one is getting the best possible care is another positive aspect of caring. We understand their needs, and can advocate for them better than anyone else.

That’s the main reward for Amy, who says: “I love that I have had the Amy opportunity to develop a strong, safe and trusting bond with Rudy.

I’ve got to know him inside out, where parents feel nurtured and which means I can support and inspired to look after themselves advocate for him now, and help him as well as they look after their learn how to advocate for himself in children,” she says. “Caring can feel the future.” like a lonely journey, but you’re not alone. There are many other carers COMMUNITY out there who are facing similar Being a carer can introduce you to challenges – and celebrating the new people who understand what amazing rewards.” you’re going through. Having that support and connection – whether it’s online or in real life – opens new SOURCES OF SUPPORT doors to friendships and activities.

Amy has started a free community Age UK: www.ageuk.org.uk (helpline open 8am-7pm daily on 0800 678 1602) called Parent Carer Cheerleading Squad, a safe and uplifting space Carers UK: www.carersuk.org (helpline open where parents of children with Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm on 0808 808 7777) additional needs can celebrate Contact: www.contact.org.uk (0808 808 3555) each other’s victories, cheer each other through tough times, and Parent Carer Cheerleading Squad: www.facebook.com/ provide support for self-care and groups/parentcarercheerleadingsquad wellbeing. “I want it to be a place

I love that I have had the opportunity to develop a strong, safe and trusting bond with Rudy

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THE PRICE WE PAY The cost of living crisis continues to show up on our supermarket receipts, heating bills and housing payments. But slightly easing costs are barely scratching the surface, especially for people with disabilities, who face additional expenses in everyday life. We find out more

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isability charity Scope’s latest research shows that disabled households with at least one disabled adult or child face extra costs of £975 a month on average. Benefits like Personal Independence Payment (PIP) don’t cover the additional costs of living with disability, leaving many people forced to make stark choices about heating or eating.

With the cost of electricity, oil and gas soaring, around four in ten adults are struggling to pay their energy bills according to ONS research. Disabled people are being even more unfairly penalised – having to run ventilators, medicine fridges, hoists or dialysis machines, or charge powerchairs, beds and feeding pumps… when you’re disabled, it all adds up.

NOT FAIR

Georgina has MS, and explains: “All my money goes on health things, supplements, food. It’s not fair that someone else who has MS or another disability can’t afford to have an acupuncture session, for example, that would be beneficial to them.”

With the support of her family, she spends around £200 a month on supplements, buys gluten free, dairy free and fresh wholefoods, faces increased heating costs, and pays hundreds of pounds towards acupuncture, sports massage, neurophysio, EMS training and other therapies to help keep her mobile.

On top of that are equipment costs including her wheelchair, walking poles, a massage gun and a Mollii suit, which helps decrease the spasticity

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in her body but cost £5,500. “There are a lot of people who maybe end up in a worse place physically and mentally than they would if they had access to more funds,” she feels.

DISABILITY DISCOUNT

Georgina’s venture Purpl offers online and in-store discounts for disabled people at brands encompassing groceries, utilities, fashion, homewares and hobbies. Members will initially need to verify their disability using an official document like a PIP letter or Blue Badge.

Georgina reveals her inspiration for Purpl, saying: “I was out shopping and thought ‘I could use my son’s student discount here’. I wondered, why can’t I get a disability discount? We cater for students, for our brilliant blue light workers, but for disabled people there’s a gap in the market – especially when we face these extra costs and don’t necessarily have a secure income.”

That’s a point worth highlighting, along with the disability pay gap, which is currently 14.6%. This means disabled people earn on average £13.05 per hour compared with non-disabled employees who earn on average £14.95 per hour. That equates to £3,460 per year. There are also one million disabled people who want to work but are denied the opportunity due to issues like negative attitudes and a lack of reasonable adjustments.

Georgina also wants to give back to the disabled community by creating a charitable foundation that provides grants for costs like buying a wheelchair, as well as creating a space online including information

on disabilities and finance all in one place. “Many people don’t realise they can get benefits, because they think they’re not disabled enough,” she says.

GO-TO GUIDE

Having all the relevant information in one place was important for Amelia Peckham too. Amelia has an incomplete spinal injury from her waist down, caused by a quad bike accident.

Amelia, who founded the business Cool Crutches with her mum, recently launched a free guide to disability benefits. “I’d been making a list on my phone for about four years, jotting down different benefits,” she explains. “I thought, why has no one made a guide? If I’d been

Many people don’t realise they can get benefits, because they think they’re not disabled enough Georgina

enable finance

Amelia, who runs Cool Crutches, has written a guide to disability benefits

given this list when I left hospital, it would’ve saved me ten years of pain…

Googling something, completing the application, getting it wrong, losing the benefit, having to wait months to reapply.” Amelia’s guide had 250 downloads within 15 minutes of her announcing it on Instagram, which shows how needed it is.

PAYING OUT

Like Georgina, Amelia also faces extra costs because she’s disabled. She’s invested in equipment to support her fluctuating symptoms, and pays for therapies to support her health, like physio, osteopathy and adapted exercise classes.

“Travelling is a huge expense,” she reveals. Amelia relies on her car or taxis to get around, and feels the time taken up by having to plan everything creates a double whammy:

“I can’t be spontaneous,” she admits.

“You can’t say ‘I’m going shopping to Manchester’. You have to research where you can park, what’s the bathroom set-up, will you need to stay the night because you’ll be too exhausted to drive home? Can you find an accessible hotel? It’s every little thing.”

While the welfare state, charities, and initiatives like Purpl offer some relief, they highlight disabled people’s ongoing struggle for fair access and inclusion in society. We need policies and practices that will deliver equal opportunities in the job market, as well as equitable access to treatments, vital equipment and essential services. Until then, disabled people will continue to bear the brunt of the additional costs of living with something they never chose to have.

That’s the price we pay.

Georgina, founder of Purpl

FOR MORE INFORMATION Download Amelia’s benefits guide at www.coolcrutches.com Register for Purpl at www.purpldiscounts.com Call Scope’s helpline on 0808 800 3333, or email helpline@scope.org.uk Check what benefits you might be able to claim at www.entitledto.co.uk

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Tim Rushby-Smith Originally from London, writer, artist and paraplegic Tim Rushby-Smith is based in Australia. He is the author of two books: Looking Up and Beyond the Break.

Follow Tim on Twitter @trushbys

MAKING EDUCATION ADD UP Enable columnist Tim Rushby-Smith considers the benefits of inclusive education

W

hen it comes to role models, there’s a well-used expression that’s succinct but accurate: You can’t be what you can’t see.

But sometimes, the seeing is not just for the benefit of those on a similar path. It can have wider societal benefits too.

With local authorities increasingly rejecting requests to assess children who need help in school, disabled children are effectively rendered invisible. They’re likely to disengage from education without their needs being met.

Coupled with the educational disadvantages experienced by ‘the Covid generation’, we’re heading deeper into an educational crisis which will leave a lasting legacy.

SHAPING ATTITUDES

School plays a vital role in our lives. Not just in academic terms, but also in shaping social attitudes. When disabled children are integrated into mainstream education with appropriate supports, they often thrive. This helps create understanding among their peers, which continues into adulthood.

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In Australia, a recent Royal Commission advocated the closing of separate schools for disabled children.

Over a 30-year period, these will be replaced with appropriate supports to enable those kids to be integrated into the wider school population, bringing an end to educational segregation.

Among disabled people and their families, the response was largely positive but certainly mixed. Some had good experiences of ‘special schools’, and expressed concerns over an already-apparent lack of funding for disabled children in state schools.

When funding is tight, it seems supporting disabled people is viewed as an optional extra

WHAT’S IMPORTANT

There’s a clear parallel between these two elements of educational policy, and a glaring issue of vital importance: we know inclusive schooling can work, but if you don’t provide funding to increase staffing levels and give adequate training, disabled children will be failed by the education system.

This could set back a whole generation of children, and even impact on wider social attitudes towards disability.

When funding is tight, it seems supporting disabled people is viewed as an optional extra. Not only is this discriminatory, it doesn’t make economic sense. Every penny invested in educating disabled children will pay dividends over the child’s lifetime.

With better social inclusion, potential to join the workforce, and the building of resilience and self-esteem, everyone benefits from turning all children into active members of society.

What’s more, it’s simply the right thing to do.

GET ABOUT… A BIT Fancy a new outfit? How about meeting up for a meal? Imagine simply hopping on a bus to town, or going to a restaurant without researching access first... Disabled peoples’ ability to access the high street continues to be an issue. We find out more

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rom hellish cobblestoned streets to vandalised public toilets, accessing the high street when you’re disabled can be something of a challenge. And that’s before you even get into the stores, restaurants and bars, where tightly-packed display units, crowded shop floors, broken-down lifts, too-loud music and inconsiderate patrons can make or break your day.

Heading to the high street is about more than just shopping. It’s getting out of the house, connecting with people, accessing local services like libraries and community centres, socialising and meeting with friends, soaking up culture, and taking part in community activities like concerts, charity events or festivals.

ALL IN THE PLANNING

But how accessible is any of that when you’re disabled? Despite long-established access laws and a plethora of accessibility products, adaptive alterations and staff training options, it’s rarely as easy as getting on a bus and heading into town to enjoy a worry-free day. When we interviewed Manchester bombing survivor and disability activist Martin Hibbert, he told us: “It’s not just about putting in a ramp, it’s actually making things accessible. I don’t want it to be like planning a military exercise when I just want to go out for a meal with my wife or a weekend away.” Martin, who is a wheelchair user, continued: “I should be able to just go anywhere and get anywhere.”

It should be that simple. But it’s not.

20 enablemagazine.co.uk

The government’s UK Disability Survey 2021 found that one in three disabled respondents often had difficulty accessing public spaces.

By failing to make the high street accessible, retailers, restaurateurs and other businesses are missing out on the ‘purple pound’ – the potential spending power of disabled people and their households. In the UK, this market is worth an estimated £274 billion every year.

ASK EUAN

Euan’s Guide is a popular online tool where disabled people, their families, friends and carers can find and share information on the accessibility of venues – from concert halls and restaurants to museums, shopping centres and sports venues – around the UK and beyond.

The Euan’s Guide 2023 Access Survey questioned 6,000 people, 98% of whom identified as a disabled person. The Access Survey’s findings make for stark reading: “Businesses are undervaluing disabled people, in both social inclusion and spending power,” explains founder Euan MacDonald MBE. 91% of survey respondents said they seek out access information before visiting somewhere new, but 76% said they’ve found the information on a venue’s website to be misleading, confusing or inaccurate.

“The survey results tell us that disabled people need more disabled access information and that businesses don’t appreciate the importance of sharing their disabled access information,” Euan reveals. The Euan’s Guide Access Survey found that

the most common barriers disabled people face are dirty toilets (67%), a lack of appropriate parking (67%), and not being able to get around the venue (63%).

BETTER OFF ONLINE?

Given the lack of access on the high street, it makes sense that disabled people would turn to the internet to meet their shopping needs, especially thanks to the huge choice of products available, competitive pricing, and fast delivery. Shopping online looks great ‘on paper’ for disabled people – a convenient service that means you don’t have to battle through crowds or navigate

I should be able to just go anywhere and get anywhere Martin Hibbert

enable life

The ‘purple pound’ – the potential spending power of disabled people – is worth an estimated £274 billion a year

THE PURPLE POUND

Disability pioneer Mike Adams OBE is the founder of EnableAll, an online marketplace that puts accessibility at the heart of its mission. EnableAll meets AAA standards for digital accessibility, the highest possible WCAG level, and Mike is calling on retailers to prioritise accessible e-commerce – and tap into the purple pound. “It’s not just disabled people

you’re catering to but also their carers, families, and millions of conscious consumers who increasingly want to see diversity and inclusion in their brands,” he explains.

May 16 is Global Accessibility Awareness Day. Focusing on digital access and inclusion for more than one billion people across the world living with disabilities or impairments, the day aims to get people talking, thinking and learning about digital inclusion. Improving digital inclusion can be as simple as using high contrast text, adding alt descriptions to images, or keeping design uncluttered and simple, but many websites are still missing the mark when it comes to accessibility.

Reflecting on the challenges disabled people must deal with when navigating the high street and

online spaces, it’s clear there’s a long way to go. Whether it’s inaccessible physical spaces or digital barriers, we face a difficult pathway towards true inclusivity. Initiatives like Euan’s Guide and EnableAll are paving the way for change so, as we mark Global Accessibility Awareness Day on May 16, let’s continue to raise awareness and help create a future where the high street is truly for everyone, both offline and online.

FIND OUT MORE

PIC: © BUSINESS DISABILITY FORUM

inaccessible stores.

But even online shopping has the power to discriminate and exclude.

In 2018, AbilityNet’s CEO Nigel Lewis said: “Over 90% of websites don’t meet single-A compliance with the WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) set by the World Wide Web consortium (W3C). The legal minimum is AA.” Have things improved?

Ability Net: www.abilitynet.org.uk EnableAll: www.enableall.com Euan’s Guide: www.euansguide.com Global Accessibility Awareness Day: www.accessibility.day

enablemagazine.co.uk

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The lifestyle Pod Hosted by Samantha Renke & Sophie-Marie Odum plus car chat with Matt Lizzimore

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Available as audio on all major streaming platforms, and video with BSL and captions

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Samantha Renke Samantha is a broadcaster, actress, disability activist and the author of ‘You Are the Best Thing Since Sliced Bread’.

Follow Samantha on Instagram @samantharenke

YOUR PERFECT PA? Samantha Renke shares her experiences of looking for a Personal Assistant, and offers her top tips to help you find support that suits

Finding a PA can be intimadating and leave you feeling vulnerable

well, some not so much! However, with each person, I’ve learned something new about how I’d like my PA to assist me, and about my own boundaries and needs.

Finding a PA can be intimidating and leave you feeling vulnerable. You’re inviting a stranger into your space and having to trust they have your best interests at heart. It’s not an experience many can relate to, which means we’re often left without support or guidance.

Perhaps I can help ease some of that concern by sharing my own top tips for onboarding?

1. Ask! If you’re moving from one local authority to another and there’s a gap in your new support package being approved, ask your previous authority to cover the shortfall. They may say they don’t offer this, but please push back on them.

2. Don’t rush. Let’s face it, care work is underpaid and undervalued. You may feel you need to accept any application, in case no one else applies. But don’t hire for the sake of hiring – you need someone you get on with and feel safe with. An established care agency can also help by providing a temp.

Sam with her PA, Fay

3. Change the narrative. Care is often packaged to favour the employee, not the service user.

Introducing the Social Model early on has been helpful for me. Highlight that your priorities must come first and, although you’ll always act professionally, you’re not there to accommodate their schedule or personal responsibilities.

4. Communicate. Communication is key to any successful relationship.

Due to poor communication, I’ve previously had PAs leave for other work or university, which comes as a huge shock. I now have regular check-ins with my PA to ask how they’re doing and if there are any areas we can both work on.

enablemagazine.co.uk

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PIC :© NICKY JOHNSTON

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oving home is undoubtedly the most stressful part of adulting. Aside from the normal upheaval that comes from relocating, having a disability means added admin and logistical issues. For me, the most challenging part of any move is hiring a new PA (Personal Assistant).

After leaving university and living independently for the first time in 2018, I applied for Direct Payments via my local authority, so I could employ a PA. Over the years, I’ve had at least ten different people work with me. I’ve gone from privately hiring (and being the employer) to working with a care agency who took over the management side of things.

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WHAT MAKES US TIC W

e all know the stereotype – the young man, swearing randomly as he walks down the street, upsetting members of the public, making others laugh. People have poked fun at Tourette Syndrome (TS) for years, but living with it is no laughing matter.

Luke Manton, who developed the neurological condition after a brain injury in his midtwenties, explains: “When this

first happened to me, I changed drastically, almost overnight.

Not just physically, but mentally as well. It makes you want to be invisible. Even if I was out with my partner George, I noticed people looking at me. It ends up spiralling, which makes my tics worse because I get stressed about it.”

15-year-old Pip can relate.

“School’s really stressful, so that heightens everything,” she says.

Pip was diagnosed at 12, after

It’s Tourette’s Awareness Month this June – we spoke to two people with a diagnosis to find out more about living with the neurological condition and helping increase acceptance experiencing tics from a young age. She also has OCD, ADHD and ASD, which are common co-occuring conditions for people with TS. At school, she’s on an adjusted timetable, but getting educational support has been challenging. “It’s the lack of understanding,” says her mum, Becca. “Things like health and safety in science lessons –” “Yeah with bunsen burners and chemicals,” interjects Pip. “It’s not safe. No one takes it into account.”

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ALWAYS MOVING

Pip’s Tourette’s means she has involuntary vocal tics, including whistling, clicking noises and swearing in sentences. Coprolalia – or involuntary swearing – affects between 10 and 20% of people with TS. “I’ve also got motor tics like head jerking, arm jerking and facial tics,” Pip reveals. “And I’ve got some hitting tics where I hit myself, other people or things around me.”

“At school, Pip focuses so much on suppressing her tics that she can’t pay attention to what’s going on,” explains Becca. “It can leave her absolutely exhausted.” Then there’s the pain, which few people understand – but frequent head jerks and bodily movements can lead to joint, neck and back pain, as well as injuries from hitting out. Pip describes it as “debilitating”, while Luke laughs “I definitely don’t need to go to the gym!”

RAISING AWARENESS

Celebrities including singers Lewis Capaldi and Billie Eilish have shared their experiences of living with TS. Capaldi’s fans famously sang his lyrics back to him when he had a severe ticcing attack on stage at Glastonbury, and was unable to perform. It made headline news, and his openness about having the condition has increased awareness.

But, as with all awareness raising, actual acceptance can be slow to follow. Becca shares: “Before Pip

Pip

26 enablemagazine.co.uk

started her medication, the swearing and motor tics were very obvious.

In shops, she would grab things off the shelves and launch them. She was quite astonished when she was asked to leave a shop once.”

STRIKING OUT ON HIS OWN

Luke lost his job after his symptoms developed. “I have two first class honours degrees and management experience, and nobody would hire me,” he admits. “They preach equality and diversity until they’ve got someone swearing at their clients – then they’re just not interested.”

He launched his own business as a virtual assistant. “I picked this industry because I thought I could work without having to go anywhere, see anyone, or speak to people face to face.” That backfired (in the best way possible), because Luke’s company Manton Executives now employs a team of ten, and supports neurodivergent-owned businesses. Luke also shares his everyday experiences of life as an entrepreneur and new dad via his popular LinkedIn and TikTok accounts.

Both Pip and Luke work with the charity Tourette’s Action as ambassadors, sharing their experiences and speaking to people affected by TS. Luke explains: “I feel like I’m making a difference because I get messages from parents of people with Tourette’s who say they’ve learned so much from me.” Pip recently talked about her experiences on Radio 5, and has discovered amazing friendships through the Tourette’s Action teen activity camp: “I met one of my best friends through the camps. She lives 300 miles away, but we call and message a lot, and make plans to meet up.”

Tourette’s Action has provided them both with community and acceptance. Luke used to spend hours chatting in online groups set up through the charity, and told us: “It’s so nice to finally have other people that understand what you’re going through. You’re not as isolated as you think you are – there is a network out there and a group of people that you’ll fit in with.”

Luke

There are other people that understand what you’re going through.

You’re not as isolated as you think you are (Luke)

Note: While writing this article, we’ve edited out swear words, verbal tics, or stammers that took place during our interviews with Luke and Pip. This has been done to aid readability of the article and make it as accessible as possible, and also due to space limitations. Enable fully supports people with all disabilities and we have no intention of silencing the voices of people with TS, but wanted to explain our reasoning behind editing our interviewees’ words.

Thanks for your understanding.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Follow Luke on TikTok: @ticcedtoc Tourette’s Action: www.tourettes-action.org.uk

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enable interview

The power of

kindness

An exclusive chat with Jodie Ounsley – the former professional rugby player who many of us know as the Gladiator Fury

W

hen she burst onto our screens on Gladiators, one thing was instantly noticeable about Jodie Ounsley – her cochlear implant. “I had an option to choose my colour,” she explains. “I chose white. It’s very out there, but I’ve got really comfortable with it. Obviously I still struggle day to day being deaf, but I embrace it now.”

With flashes of blue added to her implant (and lots of shiny lycra), Jodie was transformed into Fury, the first deaf Gladiator. Powerful and strong, kind and funny, Fury became a fan favourite.

Before Gladiators, Yorkshirewoman Jodie enjoyed success in athletics, jiu-jitsu, and the World Coal Carrying Championships. She played rugby professionally for Exeter Chiefs, was the first deaf female player to play for a senior England side, and the world’s first deaf female rugby sevens international.

Being from a sporty family, she was keen to try rugby, but was warned away from contact sports. Wearing a head guard to protect her implant, Jodie first took to the pitch aged 15 and admits: “I was hooked. By the time I was 18, I was a professional with the England Women’s Sevens, travelling the world.

It’s been a whirlwind!”

And then, of course, there’s Gladiators. “I didn’t believe I’d ever get an opportunity like this,” she admits.

Jodie loved how the programme

PICS: © BBC / JAMES STACK / © HUNGRY BEAR MEDIA LTD

WORLD’S FIRST

brought families together to watch TV, and that it presented a different image of “strong, muscular females, because there’s a lot of pressure on young girls to look like these stunning model-like girls they see on TV,” she says.

ADRENALINE RUSH

I still struggle day to day being deaf, but I embrace my cochlear implant now

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Jodie’s favourite game was The Edge – a chase between contender and Gladiator, on a platform eight metres in the air. “I’m not scared of heights, but it was the adrenaline and the atmosphere in the arena,” she reveals, “The Edge is such an exciting game to play.”

Jodie’s become a role model for the deaf community. “It’s amazing to be in

this position,” she admits. “Growing up, I never knew anyone who was deaf, never mind seeing them in the media.”

She’s using her experiences of deafness to help raise awareness, especially around the issue of hearing fatigue. “It’s long days of concentrating and lipreading,” Jodie tells us. “By the end of the day, you’re absolutely frazzled.” She kindly suggests: “In a situation where you may be struggling, you’re missing things, or you can’t quite do it yourself,” she explains, “there’s no shame or embarrassment in asking for help. I’d say be honest; push yourself to be vulnerable. So much good will come from doing that.”

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HOW DOES A BLIND GIRL…?

Award-winning television presenter, author and disability activist Lucy Edwards lost her sight aged 17 due to incontinentia pigmenti. She chats to Enable magazine about her life in front of the lens 30 enablemagazine.co.uk

enable

interview

What makes you so resilient?

My age helps with the online trolls.

I’ve got my own sense of self, an inner peace I’ve never felt before.

I’ve worked hard for my mental health to be as good as it is now.

When I lost my eyesight, I lost sight of who I was. My resilience comes from always comparing bad things in my life to ‘it’s not as bad as losing my eyesight’. I’ve already dealt with the worst day of my life, so every day from now on is good, no matter what happens.

Are you surprised by some of the reactions you receive?

Yes. There are still a lot of people who don’t know about blindness – we keep the ‘How does a blind girl…?’ series going for that reason.

There’s still a lot of ableism, but sometimes it doesn’t come from a place of hate. It comes from a place of misunderstanding, because we’re not taught about disability in the workplace or in school. My TikToks are used by teachers in class, and I get a lot of great comments and messages from them.

How did you get into presenting and media work?

I was the little girl with the hairbrush who presented talent shows with her sister in the dining room – I’ve always wanted to be a performer in that sense. But when I lost my eyesight, I thought maybe it wasn’t my destiny. I started doing YouTube in 2014, initially to find a community where I could chat to like-minded people. I was trying to find some friends! I learned how

I’ve lost my eyesight but I haven’t lost my vision, in that I truly see what life is meant to be like to edit, produce and how to create a viral video, so it turned into a portfolio for my BBC journalism work which was amazing. I then founded my own company offering social media creation and diversity and inclusion consulting. I went from being really low having just lost my eyesight, to doing this as a job – it’s a pleasure to do something every day that I love.

Your book, Blind Not Broken, was released on 28 March…

It’s the best thing. It’s my little mind baby being released into the world!

Some of the things I’ve written in there are things I’ve never shared before. I love that my family and my husband Ollie have shared their feelings from when I lost my eyesight – Ollie’s chapter always makes me cry. I wanted to make it part-memoir, part-guide. Anyone who goes through trauma, loss and grief, we can all come together in that grief, no matter what you’re losing. You see me now being really successful, but it’s taken me 10 years to get here.

Grief doesn’t go away overnight – I’m still grieving even now after losing my sight 11 years ago. That’s okay.

Which of your projects do you feel has had the most impact?

My Pantene commercials. People seeing a blind person feel their hair, and understanding that marketing isn’t always about what something looks like – it’s about how something feels. We can all relate to that.

Previously, many campaigns used disabled people as a tokenistic thing. But now I get to help design their products to be accessible to my community, using true universal design principles. That’s what mattered with that campaign.

Lucy and her guide dog

You often share tech and AI advances on your socials. Tell us more.

Universal design needs to be incorporated everywhere. I live in a sighted world not made for me, so I plug the gaps by having a lot of sighted help around me – my husband and I still spend hours Braille labelling! I use AI every day – I use Be My Eyes to separate my light and dark washing, or I scan different barcodes with NaviLens.

Tactile measures are needed as well [Pantene maker Procter & Gamble now adds tactile notching to its product bottles]. We’re only just at the beginning of this revolution, but I’m so excited to see what’s to come.

MAIN PIC: © KYLE SPRINGATE

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hat are you most proud of, among all of your achievements?

Being a role model for all the little Lucys out there who haven’t had a voice. When I was younger, I couldn’t see myself represented. Being on social media, not using filters, showing my true self – it shows young people that they should love who they are.

Going blind was the best thing that happened to me because I see life in a completely different way. I’ve lost my eyesight but I haven’t lost my vision, in that I truly see what life is meant to be like.

You might recognise Lucy from the adverts she did with Pantene, or from her BBC travel programmes.

Her ‘How does a blind girl…?’ videos have gone viral, with one TikTok showing how Lucy does her own make-up attracting 20 million views.

You can follow Lucy on TikTok at @lucyedwards or on Instagram via @lucyedwardsofficial

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You might be the foster carer they need Foster carers are ordinary people doing an extraordinary thing No matter who you are, if you would like to know more about fostering, speak to Hackney today.

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THE BEST START Fostering provides a secure and nurturing environment for a child who can’t live with their birth family. We take a closer look at how it can help you start or expand your own family

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any people dream of starting a family, but the process can be a challenge.

If you’re keen to have children, one of the options you might consider is fostering. This enables you to care for a child or children on a longterm, short-term, emergency or respite basis. The application process is the same for all types of fostering, and you can apply via your local authority or a specialist fostering agency.

FOSTERING WITH A DISABILITY

It is possible to become a foster carer when you’re disabled – your eligibility will depend on how your physical and mental health impacts on your ability to care for a child (and yourself). You’re likely to already have a few of the qualities foster agencies are looking for: resilience, determination and persistence, to name a few.

Fostering doesn’t come without its challenges. But it also brings great rewards, and gives you the opportunity to make a difference to a child’s life.

According to the National Fostering Group, more than 8,000 new foster carers are needed UK-wide to provide homes for children in need of a foster family.

LIFE-CHANGING

Foster carers undergo training and have access to professional support to help them in this life-changing role. It can take up to eight months from initial inquiry to appearing at a fostering panel. The process includes in-depth assessments and background checks.

Raising children doesn’t come cheap, but foster carers are entitled to an allowance. This varies depending on

the age of the child/children you’re caring for, and whereabouts you are in the UK. The allowance won’t affect any means-tested benefits you receive. Foster carers need to register as self-employed and complete a tax return – your fostering agency or local authority can support you with this.

As you’d expect, being a foster parent can have a huge impact on you and your family – it needs to be a joint decision, with everyone in agreement.

Of course, you don’t have to already have children, or a partner, to become a foster carer. You can be single, married, cohabiting, in a same-sex relationship, male, female or trans.

You will usually need a spare bedroom.

If you’re in employment, you need to consider if you’re able to take time off for any illnesses or school holidays, for example. The main thing agencies are looking for is that you can provide a secure, nurturing environment to enable a foster child to thrive.

You’re likely to already have a few of the qualities foster agencies are looking for, like resilience, determination and persistence FOR MORE INFORMATION Fosterline: www.fosterline.info / 0800 040 7675 The Fostering Network: www.thefosteringnetwork.org.uk

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Southampton – Wednesday 25 September 2024, 2pm Birmingham – Wednesday 23 October 2024, 1pm

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UNSEEN Life with a non-visible disability Around 80% of disabled people have a hidden disability.

They may face discrimination and difficulty in going about their everyday lives due to a lack of understanding and the fact they’re not ‘visibly’ disabled. We find out more enablemagazine.co.uk

35

enable life

BUT YOU DON’T LOOK DISABLED

Defying stereotypes of what disability ‘should’ look like means that people with invisible disabilities can sometimes face increased discrimination and judgement.

Conditions can also be dynamic – some days a person with MS may need to use a walking stick for example, and other days they might manage without one, which can make their condition even less ‘believable’ to some.

When someone says “But you don’t look disabled”, it denies someone with a non-visible disability access to a disability space, such as a disabled parking bay or accessible bathroom.

And that attitude doesn’t just come from the non-disabled community: “I’ve had evil eyes from wheelchair users when I’m coming out of a disabled loo if they’re waiting to go in,” reveals Amanda. “You always want to start explaining why you’ve had to use the disabled toilet.”

REASONABLE ADJUSTMENTS

Amanda continued to work in care for two years after her fibromyalgia diagnosis in 2009: “After I was diagnosed, I was convinced I was going to get sacked. I sat down with my manager and gave her a booklet

36 enablemagazine.co.uk

claimed they’d made a referral to their internal occupational health department. The department didn’t exist. A real referral was finally made more than two years later. “It confirmed everything I’d been trying to tell my employer for the last two and a half years,” Faye says.

Despite only requesting reasonable adjustments, and having never been subject to any previous warnings or disciplinary actions, Faye was recently dismissed from her role. “It continues to be incredibly stressful,” reveals Faye. “I find the whole thing extremely surreal. They’re still denying my disability, despite all the medical evidence.” Faye has commenced tribunal proceedings against her now-ex employer.

Amanda

You always want to start explaining why you’ve had to use the disabled toilet Amanda I’d been given at the hospital. She looked it over and said ‘That tells me what you’re dealing with. Now what do you need?’.” Amanda’s shifts were rejigged so she was able to continue in employment for longer. Unfortunately though, not everyone is so lucky.

Faye has a wide range of debilitating symptoms brought on by a neck injury, caused by using inappropriate equipment provided by her employer while working from home during lockdown. On returning to the office, Faye’s employer took nine months to provide a suitable desk, keyboard and mouse for her. After requesting – and being denied – a reasonable adjustment of a caseload reduction to enable her to manage her symptoms, Faye says “I’ve been targeted by line managers and had work piled on. One even suggested that, as I was suffering from a disability, I should resign. As a result of the isolation and bullying, I began suffering from anxiety and depression.”

TELLING THE TRUTH

Faye requested an occupational health referral, and her employer

HELPING OTHERS

Amanda eventually left her work at the care home, saying: “It absolutely broke my heart to leave.” She went down the holistic route to manage her pain, after being referred to Glasgow’s Centre for Integrative Care where she benefited from mindfulness-based cognitive behavioural therapy. She now runs a wellbeing clinic (www.facebook.com/ TheButterflyRoomPaisley) and says “That’s how I ended up doing what I’m doing now – I wanted to help other people access the stuff that had helped me.”

By working for herself and managing her time and condition carefully, Amanda is able to deal with her pain better: “My appointment schedule is full today,” she says. “That sounds like I’m really busy, but I only have two appointments. So my fibromyalgia is really well managed, to the extent where – to a lot of people – it probably doesn’t look as if I have the condition.

I do. But it’s the work that goes on behind the scenes.”

Navigating life with hidden disabilities presents many ‘behind the scenes’ challenges that often go unrecognised. Through the experiences of Amanda and Faye, we can see how societal perceptions, systemic barriers and invisible conditions interplay. But by improving awareness, advocating for inclusivity, and implementing support mechanisms, we can help lessen the impact of hidden disabilities for the people who live with them.

PICS: PHOTO OF AMANDA © MAKING THE INVISIBLE VISIBLE / ALASDAIR WATSON PHOTOGRAPHY; MAIN IMAGE: BUSINESS DISABILITY FORUM

W

hen she worked in a care home, Amanda was always the first to put herself forward to cover shifts if a colleague was absent. “I used to stay on extra to cover the night shift,” she explains. “I’d say ‘If somebody runs me home so I can get my medication, I’ll come back in’. That made perfect sense to me then, even knowing how much pain I was in. I couldn’t even brush my hair without crying.”

Amanda has fibromyalgia, a longterm condition that causes pain all over the body. There are around 10 million people of working age in the UK who, like Amanda, are living with a non-visible disability. This can include things like speech impediment, impaired sight, colitis, autism, and depression. They’re all protected by the same equality laws as people with more obvious disabilities, such as wheelchair users and assistance dog owners.

ASSISTED PERFORMANCES STRATFORD-UPON-AVON MAY - JUNE 2024 ROYAL SHAKESPEARE THEATRE

THE OTHER PLACE

Wednesday 1 May 2024 Audio Described Saturday 4 May 2024- Matinee Captioned Chilled Performance Thursday 9 May 2024-Matinee Chilled Performance Saturday 11 May 2024- Matinee Audio Described Captioned Friday 17 May 2024 Captioned

Saturday 25 May 2024-Matinee Audio Described Captioned Friday 31 May 2024 Signed Saturday 1 Jun 2024-Matinee Signed Chilled Performance

LOVE’S LABOUR’S LOST

SWAN THEATRE

THE BUDDHA OF SUBURBIA

Thursday 9 May 2024 Captioned Friday 10 May 2024 Audio Described Tuesday 21 May 2024 Handheld Captioned Thursday 23 May 2024 Signed Saturday 25 May 2024-Matinee Signed Chilled Performance Wednesday 29 May 2024-Matinee Chilled Performance Saturday 1 Jun 2024-Matinee Audio Described Captioned

ENGLISH

If you would like to reserve one of our handheld captioning devices for any of the select performances, please email tickets@rsc.org.uk and we can ensure you are sitting in the best seating for the device.

WAYS TO BOOK ONLINE AT rsc.org.uk VIA EMAIL AT access@rsc.org.uk

BY PHONE ON 01789 331275 New Work at the RSC is generously supported by Hawthornden Foundation and The Drue and H.J. Heinz II Charitable Trust English at Kiln Theatre is supported by Cockayne – Grants for the Arts: a donor advised fund held at The London Community Foundation

enable voices

Finding my way

A day in the life of an autistic teen

Cora, who is 13 and autistic, shares her experiences of an average day at school

I

was diagnosed autistic two years ago. Mum said I’d always been ‘different’ and, during lockdown, my traits became more obvious, so I was referred for assessment. I don’t really ‘get’ what autism means, I’m just me. And this is my day.

On a school day I wake up around quarter to five. Sometimes I sleep in, because I struggle to switch off at night.

UNCOMFORTABLE

Once I’m awake, I go on my phone for ten minutes. I spend almost an hour on make-up, then have breakfast, pack my bag, brush my teeth, and get dressed.

My least favourite part of getting ready for school is getting changed into my uniform, due to how uncomfortable it is.

It’s so tight and restrictive. Then I get my shoes on and get driven to school by my mum. I have my headphones in for the drive; my little brother and sister are so noisy in the car.

Once I get into school, I go to class

or a room in my school’s guidance department. I go there for one period, four days a week, for a break from anything or everything. It’s really nice and I’m very grateful to have that kind of support from my school.

STRUGGLE TO FOCUS

Lessons are not always that enjoyable because of noise. I can struggle with focusing and keeping up, because things aren’t always written out and explained fully, and I feel rushed. I get headaches throughout the day from the lighting at school, and because of feeling cramped while in the corridors, going from class to class. That’s another reason it’s not easy to go to school a lot of the time. My attendance is low but school staff are helping with that. I find school really tiring.

At lunch, I usually hang out alone or with a friend. Due to the long, chaotic lines in the canteen, I pretty much skip lunch every day I’m there. I listen to music or go out for fresh air at lunchtime too.

Cora

My least favourite part of getting ready for school is getting changed into my uniform, due to how uncomfortable it is TIME TO TALK

At the end of the day, I get the bus home.

Once I get to the stop, I walk my friend home – it’s a chance to talk since we’re not in any classes together.

After this, I head home where I go straight to my bedroom to get out of my uniform. I grab snacks, listen to music and relax. Then I have dinner and stay up a couple more hours on my phone, then go to sleep.

FOR MORE INFORMATION National Autistic Society: www.autism.org.uk

38 enablemagazine.co.uk

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enable interview

GEORGE WEBSTER

“I’m not

Down’s George” Actor, dancer and award-winning presenter George Webster speaks to Kate Stevenson about his new book ‘Why Not?’ and the importance of disability representation in the media enablemagazine.co.uk

41

enable interview

FAMILY FAVOURITE

George was scouted by CBeebies producers after they saw his viral video with BBC Bitesize, busting myths about Down’s syndrome.

When he got the call asking him to become a presenter, he was ecstatic: “I squealed down the phone! I was so excited; I couldn’t wait to get started.”

After speaking to George myself, I wasn’t surprised that – after the success of his first show – CBeebies

It’s your life, and it’s not up to anyone else, so why not do this and why not do that? quickly asked him to become a regular presenter. Like me, viewers were enchanted by George’s optimism and couldn’t get enough of him and his fabulous dancing.

“CBeebies, you have made a little boy just like George so excited. You are the best,” shared one mum on X, while others said they could watch George all day: “We’re loving George this morning – I hope he is going to be a regular!”

WHY NOT?

But can you blame them? After all, it’s hard not to be captivated by George and his outlook on life. His positive attitude shone through in our interview as he excitedly discussed his career aspirations and his new book, ‘Why Not?’.

The inspiring book follows George as he tells the reader about who he is, his life, and how to look on the bright side of everything: “I always say, why not? Why not do this? Why not do that? And that’s how I came up with the book.”

The story highlights the importance of representation, inclusion, and being ourselves.

George knows that having Down’s syndrome is an important part of who he is. But he also knows it doesn’t define him: “I have Down’s syndrome, but I’m not Down’s George,” he explains. “I hope I can help people understand that, and help them see others for who they really are.”

BUSTING MYTHS

Although disabled representation has come a long way, George admits it would be nice to see more people like him on screen. When he was younger, he told me there wasn’t anyone on TV with Down’s

42 enablemagazine.co.uk

syndrome, and he didn’t understand why. “It’s very important to represent people with disabilities in the media,” reveals George. “Our stories need to be told.”

When children don’t see themselves in the media, it can have a hugely detrimental effect on their sense of self-identity. It can also add to the stigma and confusion surrounding certain disabilities that are kept off-screen. Inclusive programming also helps children believe in themselves and shows them they can do anything they put their minds to.

George says children who’ve seen him on TV feel like they can become presenters too, and he asks “Why not? It’s important to always be yourself, dream big and not let anyone else tell you what to do. It’s your life, and it’s not up to anyone else, so why not do this and why not do that?”

MAKING HISTORY

In 2021, George made history when he became the first CBeebies presenter with Down’s syndrome.

A year later, to no one’s surprise apart from his own, he won a BAFTA Award: “When they announced me, I was like, what? I was really happy and really shocked. It was such a fun night. Everyone was high-fiving me, even people I had just met that night! It was amazing.”

But George’s accomplishments don’t end there. The award-winning presenter keeps himself busy with acting and charity work. He even took to the dancefloor in 2022 to show off his moves in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas special.

And 2024 is set to be another busy year for George, who has just finished acting in a play in France and is already thinking about what he’ll get up to next: “Maybe I will become the next James Bond, or I could be the next Doctor Who... Why not?”

Whatever comes next, one thing’s for sure: the future looks bright for George.

FOR MORE INFORMATION George’s new book, Why Not?, is on sale at all good booksellers.

PIC: © CBEEBIES

A

s I sat down for my chat with George Webster, it quickly became clear that he’s on a mission to inspire the nation and get children to think about disabilities differently.

George, who has Down’s syndrome – but is “not Down’s George” – is determined to show the world that he will achieve great things.

Becoming a presenter for CBeebies was just the first step in his master plan. Action-loving George now has his sights set on acting in Marvel films.

As an advocate for disabled representation in the media, George told me how special it was to grow up watching Justin Fletcher play Mr Tumble, and seeing Makaton language on TV. Now, George joins Justin as a much-loved role model on televisions across the UK, celebrating his own uniqueness and encouraging others to be themselves.

Chasing the sun Demand for overseas holidays has soared since the pandemic, with most Brits now heading for the sun at least once a year.

Here are our top tips for travelling as a disabled person

D

espite the cost of living squeeze, more than two thirds of people in the UK have a holiday booked for this year. Can you blame us? Combine our unpredictable weather with the excitement of planning a getaway, and our desire to head to sunnier climes is no surprise.

For disabled people, that excitement is often dampened by the difficulties that come with travelling overseas.

Accessible travel has come a long way in recent years, and more and more disabled people are venturing abroad. But there’s still far to go. Even within the UK, disabled adults in England made 25% fewer trips than non-disabled adults last year, and accessibility issues played a huge role in this.

NEW HORIZONS

Actor George Robinson, from the hit Netflix show Sex Education, is tetraplegic. He admits that travelling causes him a lot of anxiety. Like other disabled people, he worries about the what ifs, like whether or not his wheelchair will make it to his destination in one piece.

Despite his fears, he believes that, if you have the opportunity to travel, you should take it: “So much

44 enablemagazine.co.uk

of life is about new experiences and embracing horizons beyond what you are used to. Being able to do that is really important, regardless of one’s disability.”

George is right – travelling and experiencing the world is special. And there are lots of things you can do to make it easier and still enjoy the holiday of your dreams.

DESTINATION UNKNOWN

As much as you might want to jet off to the first location you see in a travel brochure, not every country (or even city) is accessible. The streets of Barcelona and Rome are known for being relatively wheelchair friendly, while tourist attractions in Paris – like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Musée d’Orsay – are all largely accessible. All of Reykjavik’s new buildings have had to provide disabled access since 2012 so, if you fancy visiting Iceland, you can expect few issues in its modern hotels, attractions and museums.

If you’re able to, consider investing in equipment to help make negotiating days out in a new place easier. That might include things like folding travel ramps, which can be stowed on the back of your wheelchair, or panniers which attach to the sides of your chair

for easy access to travel documents, snacks, medication and any medical supplies you need to carry.

SOMEWHERE TO STAY

When booking somewhere to stay, it’s vital to consider the accessibility of your accommodation. Airbnb now offers an ‘adapted’ search filter, allowing you to look for places that are step-free, with adapted bathrooms, accessible parking spots and more.

While this is a move in the right direction, disabled TV presenter and Rights on Flights founder Sophie Morgan has been critical of other accommodation providers for doing the bare minimum: “There needs

Life is about new experiences and embracing horizons beyond what you are used to actor George Robinson

enable travel to be more access to information for disabled customers, with clear descriptions and photos or, better still, videos (captioned). This would enable us to assess access for ourselves, and make more informed decisions before we travel.”

If you’d prefer to book through a travel agent, have a look at disabledaccessibletravel.com. The company covers more than 100 destinations across Europe. They’ve even designed an app – Accessaloo – to help you find accessible toilets while you’re away.

COME FLY WITH ME

Navigating airports as a disabled person can be challenging. They can be incredibly busy – Manchester Airport welcomes more than 100,000 passengers every day during peak summer season.

Before you even board your plane, there are things to arrange. Special assistance should be booked at least 48 hours before your flight, to inform the airline of your travel needs. At the airport, a Persons with Reduced Mobility (PRM) agent will help you with checking in, security, and getting to your departure gate.

It’s wise to think about ordering extra medication, and getting any required doctor’s notes or vaccinations well in advance. Quotes for travel insurance should be obtained before you book your trip as this can be costly depending upon your needs – confirm and pay for this when you book, to make the process as seamless as possible.

If you travel with an assistance dog, the Civil Aviation Authority informs us that airlines must accept all assistance dogs for air travel without charge. The airline may ask for proof that your dog has been trained by a recognised training organisation, and you will need to ensure your dog has all relevant paperwork, including an Animal Health Certificate.

Bags packed, passports and travel documents double-checked, front door locked, and guide book in your hand luggage? It’s time to check-in, jet off, and get ready to enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.

FOR MORE INFORMATION Scope’s useful guide ‘Planning accessible holidays abroad’ can be found via www.scope.org.uk

enablemagazine.co.uk

45

enable competition

WIN

AN AMAZON FIRE HD 8 TABLET

We’re giving Enable readers the chance to win the fastest Fire tablet

I

WORTH OVER £99 HOW TO ENTER Simply send your name, contact details and where you picked up your copy of Enable. Deadline for entries: Monday 24 June 2024.

BY EMAIL competitions@dcpublishing.co.uk quoting Fire 24 ONLINE www.enablemagazine.co.uk/fire2024

BY POST Competition, DC Publishing Ltd, 198 Bath Street, Glasgow, G2 4HG

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: All entries must be received by Monday 24 June 2024. The prize is one Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet, 2022 release, with ads, in black. This will be sent direct to the winner. The prize is non-transferable, non-refundable, there is no cash alternative and it cannot be sold to another party. The contents of the prize may differ from the images and descriptions included here. One entry per household. The publisher’s decision is final. If you do not wish to receive further communications from Enable Magazine, include ‘opt-out’ in your entry. UK and Ireland entries only. This competition is not being run in conjunction with Amazon.

46 enablemagazine.co.uk

PICS: © AMAZON.COM, INC

n this issue’s competition, one lucky reader will win an Amazon Fire HD 8 tablet. Perfect for using at home and out and about, the tablet offers up to 13 hours of reading, browsing the web, watching videos and listening to music.

Download your favourite apps and streaming services via the Amazon Appstore to keep in touch with friends, catch up with the news, or watch movies and TV series on its 8” high definition screen.

With a faster processor, strengthened screen and the thinnest, lightest design yet, this Amazon Fire tablet combines practicality with sleek looks and great performance.

Enjoy handsfree control via the tablet’s in-built Alexa – ask Alexa to play music, update your shopping list, buy things online, get a weather update, or phone friends and family. You can even use it to control your home using Alexa voice control, if you have compatible smart home devices like lightbulbs and plugs.

The Amazon Fire HD 8 boasts a number of accessibility features.

These include the VoiceView screen reader which enables access to text-to-speech for visually impaired people, a screen magnifier so you can zoom in and out and pan around the screen, and settings for closed captions, font size, contrast, colour inversion, colour correction and conversion to mono audio.

Stay somewhere special

Relax in Jersey’s accessible hotel Wheelchair accessible self-catering log cabins

in the Peak District countryside The only hotel in the Channel Islands designed specifically for people with disabilities, Maison des Landes provides the relaxing atmosphere of a modern hotel and the very latest facilities.

Mobile hoist Specialist equipment Roll in wet room shower Dogs welcome Off-road wheelchair hire

• 23 specially equipped rooms • Lounge and orangery • Accessible indoor pool • 48 seat dining room • Large tranquil gardens • Views of Jersey National Park

For more information please visit our website: www.maisondeslandes.co.uk, call 01534 481683 or email: reservations@maisondeslandes.co.uk

www.hoegrangeholidays.co.uk tel: 01629 540262

Thu 16 May 7.30pm

King’s Theatre

King’s Theatre

THE THEATRE IS FOR EVERYONE

Wed 11 Dec 7pm & Fri 3 Jan 2pm Fri 13 Dec 7pm Tue 17 Dec 1pm & 7pm Thu 19 Dec 1pm

atgtickets.com/glasgow*

*Fees apply

We want everyone to be able to access and enjoy all that Aberdeen Performing Arts has to offer.

• Audio described performances • BSL interpreted performances • Captioned performances • Relaxed performances • Hearing assistance • Touch tours • Essential companions Find out more at aberdeenperformingarts.com/access

enable life

The diary

Send your upcoming events to editor@dcpublishing.co.uk

NOW UNTIL 16 MAY

Canary Wharf and Tower Hamlets, London Sniff out 25 larger-thanlife guide dog sculptures on this accessible and inclusive trail, which has been created to raise awareness and funds to help people with sight loss live more active and independent lives. Each sculpture has been individually decorated in vibrant designs by talented artists. You can also experience the fun-filled trail using the NaviLens app, or book on a sighted guide and sensory tour.

www.guidedogs.org.uk/paws-on-the-wharf

1 JUNE

Wheelchair Rugby League Challenge Cup final English Institute of Sport, Sheffield, and streamed live on BBC Sport Get fast and furious with this straight knockout tournament. Involving all five Super League teams, catch the final to find out who’ll lift the trophy this year. Will it be four-time Cup winners Halifax Panthers, or current Betfred Wheelchair Super League champions Wigan Warriors? www.rugby-league.com/match-centre

17-23 JUNE

Learning Disability Week Nationwide The theme for this year’s Learning Disability Week is ‘Do you see me?’ Uncovering the barriers learning disabled people face and celebrating their contribution to society will help us smash stigmas and fight for a fairer society. This year's Learning Disability Week will see events up and down the country, as well as online activities, taking place to ensure people with learning disabilities are seen, heard and valued.

17-18 MAY

The Big Event Birmingham NEC, and smaller events in Exeter (June), Harrogate (August) and Edinburgh (September) Motability hosts its annual free event with wheelchair accessible vehicles, powered wheelchairs and mobility aids, all under one roof. Expert speakers include world number one Paralympic table tennis star Will Bayley MBE PLY, BBC presenter Steve Brown, and Human Beauty founder Millie Clare. Lucy Edwards – who features in a Q&A on page 30 of this issue of Enable magazine – will take to the stage too. With a special focus on adapted electric vehicles, and the chance to test drive vehicles fitted with popular driving adaptations, it’s an unmissable event for your diary.

www.motabilitythebigevent.co.uk

10-16 JUNE

Carers’ Week Events across the UK, and online Celebrating and supporting the work of the UK’s 5.6 million unpaid carers, the theme for this year’s Carers’ Week is ‘putting carers on the map’. With the launch of new research and special events focusing on aspects like employment, young carers, and wellbeing, the week aims to increase visibility for carers among decision makers, services, employers, communities, and businesses, and ensure that carers can access the services and support that they need. www.carersweek.org

PICS: PAWS ON THE WHARF © SEAN POLLOCK; WHEELCHAIR RUGBY © SWPIX.COM (T/A PHOTOGRAPHY HUB LTD)

Paws on the Wharf

www.mencap.org.uk/learningdisabilityweek

enablemagazine.co.uk 49

enable life

ACCESS

Low, flat thresholds

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This revolutionary t-shirt has been designed by 11-year-old Max Palfrey to make dressing more comfortable for neurodivergent kids like him.

The Fidget-T is made from modal and elastane, with encased seams and no internal labels. Pop-its, the popular fidget toys, are sewn into the hem of each t-shirt, to support sensory regulation.

This lightweight harness was designed by Tom, who is blind, and his friend, Laura. Made to be worn on a guide’s upper arm or wrist, it’s a contactless walking aid that helps you get out and about, whether that’s wandering, walking or running. Available in a range of sizes and colours, they’re designed and manufactured in the UK.

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Product picks

ACCESS

Easi-Grip Add-On Handles Make gardening easier with these addon handles, which clip to regular tools to provide a comfortable grip at a more accessible angle. Perfect for working in raised beds, these can be combined with the Arm Support Cuff for many other jobs like sweeping and hoovering.

From £10.95 www.peta-uk.com/shop/easi-grip-addon-handles-pack-of-2/

50 enablemagazine.co.uk

SENSORY

Send us details of your products to

editor@dcpublishing.co.uk

HEALTH

Sensory tunnel mirror

Giraffe Hands-Free Bottle

This gorgeous sensory toy creates the illusion of a never-ending tunnel of lights.

Measuring 22cm in diameter, this infinity mirror is battery powered and can be handheld or attached to a wall. The LED lights change colour and fade slowly, creating a relaxing sensory experience.

Staying hydrated is always important.

The Giraffe bottle is versatile – attach it to your wheelchair, bed or desk with the special clamp, and its long, flexible neck stays put, so you can drink hands-free. Available in stainless steel to keep your drink hot for 10 hours or cold for 18 hours, or BPA-free plastic, which is dishwasher safe.

£16.99 sensorytoys.co.uk

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Trionic’s terrain-taking model, the Veloped, can overtake curbs, rocks, roots and other obstacles without losing ground contact. The sturdy design and air-filled tyres minimise vibrations and offer a smoother ride on gravel, grass, cobblestone and forest tracks.

Treat yourself or a loved one to one of the most reliable walking aids on the market!

Call us now on 0330 818 0867 or visit trionic.uk/enable to read more and order your free catalogue.

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SWEDISH

DESIGN

enable interview

A MARATHON EFFORT Paralympian Richard Whitehead MBE speaks to our Editor about his recent World Record-breaking run, while Dr Julie McElroy explains how she got into competitive racing – with the help of Richard’s charity – to become the first female frame runner to complete the London Marathon

H

ow are you? It’s the first question I ask Richard and Julie when I speak to them, four days after the London Marathon. “It’s two hours, 42 minutes of running as hard as you can for as long as you can, just trying to hold on,” says Richard. “I came off that route pain-free, no blisters,” explains Julie, “and I was back on my local track last night.”

Julie’s first marathon experience was a far cry from Richard’s debut.

At the New York Marathon in 2004, he says: “I finished in five hours, 19 minutes. I was so sore, had loads of blisters, said I’d never do it again…

The rest is history. Four Paralympic Games, two Paralympic gold medals, world titles, world records – and I’m still going!”

PASSIONATE

April’s race was Richard’s 79th marathon. “I’m passionate about disabled people being on the other side of the barrier,” he says, “getting them on the road and into events.”

He set up The Richard Whitehead Foundation to support disabled people into sport. The charity has helped people who weren’t active – “And now they’re running marathons,” he exclaims. “That’s fantastic.”

Julie has cerebral palsy and is profoundly deaf. She’s always led an active lifestyle. But a serious accident six years ago left her in chronic pain.

Three years ago, her physio mentioned frame running, and she’s never looked back.

CHALLENGING

“It was very challenging because it was so busy,” Julie says of the London

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Marathon. “It was great to have my support runner Gill Menzies giving me the space to manoeuvre through the course.” Julie, who has completed shorter races without a guide, feels she couldn’t have crossed the finish line without Gill.

The Richard Whitehead Foundation set up the Supported Running Project in partnership with Nissan, for whom Richard is an ambassador. It trains volunteers, like Gill, to support disabled runners to take part in events. That could mean pushing a wheelchair, keeping a frame runner hydrated, or guiding someone like Richard to run safely with running blades.

Richard Whitehead MBE

NEXT GOAL

Julie’s next race is the Paisley 10k.

“I’m grateful I found an outlet, after my injury, to let me take care of my mental health,” she reveals.” Richard’s next goal is Project 235 – running the Chicago Marathon in October in two hours, 35 minutes. “I’m 47, so it takes a lot of hard work and sacrifice just to get on the start line fit and healthy,” explains Richard. “This year is a big year. I‘ve got a lot of momentum and I want to bring people on the journey with me.”

I’m grateful I found an outlet to let me take care of my mental health Dr Julie McElroy

Julie training with Gill

FOR MORE INFORMATION If you’re interested in learning more, visit www.whitehead.foundation, where you can also register for Run with Rich, a fun and inclusive event that takes place in Nottingham on 2nd June.

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THREADS OF CHANGE Even in 2024, disabled people are still underrepresented in mainstream fashion and often unable to wear off-the-rail clothes. Kate Stevenson speaks to two adaptive clothing designers to find out more

Victoria Jenkins 54 enablemagazine.co.uk

F

ashion brands are slowly but surely starting to rethink adaptive fashion.

We’ve all got to wear clothes, so offering lines designed to make everyday life easier for disabled people makes business and moral sense.

Tommy Hilfiger has worked closely with its disabled customers since 2016 to create inclusive collections, while Marks & Spencer offers adaptive clothing for children aged from birth to 16, including school uniform and everyday wear for children with hip dysplasia, feeding tubes and sensory sensitivities.

Primark launched an adaptive underwear line with magnetic fastenings at the start of the year.

But has enough really been done?

Any progress is good news, but many designers are still failing to consider the disabled community when they create garments with fiddly buttons or add unnecessary zips to the back of clothes. It’s time for clothing brands to embrace

inclusive fashion, because we all have different requirements when it comes to clothes, whether that’s size, cut, or fabric.

ALTERATIONS

It won’t come as a surprise to read that a quarter of disabled people need to have their clothing altered.

Even though most of us would love to be able to buy adaptive garments from mainstream retailers, it’s just not possible.

Cherish Reardon founded Popsy Clothing in 2017. The family-run business started altering clothes for customers when Cherish discovered how difficult dressing can be when her daughter broke her arm and needed a cast from her shoulder to her wrist. “It really opened my eyes,” she admits. “If Popsy Clothing can make life a little bit easier and stop people from worrying about their clothing, then I’m all for that.”

REPRESENTATION

Popsy Clothing features a wide

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range of models on the website, and Cherish explains: “We’ve always been inclusive in terms of representation – we don’t use professional models, and we’ve had wheelchair users apply to do customer modelling for us.” She explains this was never an intentional marketing plan; using a wide range of models to reflect real women has simply come naturally.

Cherish speaks highly of her sewing team. Because all their clothes are made in the UK, they can add holes in dresses for medical pumps, shorten the length of dresses for wheelchair users, or remove tags from clothes for people with sensory needs, to meet everyone’s requirements.

Offering free alterations like this is rare in the fashion industry: “I do think companies could be doing more to make adaptive clothing part of their normal ranges,” reveals Cherish. “I want more designers to look at a dress or piece of clothing and actually think about how they can make it accessible for everyone.”

about the clothing itself; it’s about representation as well.”

HIGH STREET

Although some retailers are trying to be more considerate, the sad reality is that three in five disabled shoppers find it difficult to buy clothes they feel happy in. Victoria says this isn’t good enough: “There are more clothing ranges for dogs than for disabled people. That really underpins how disabled people are viewed and why the mindset shift is so important.”

Unhidden was Victoria’s answer to the gap in the market for fashionable and fun adaptive clothing for people of all ages and disabilities. The brand is disabled-led and works closely with disabled models at events like London Fashion Week.

Victoria believes the mainstream fashion industry will only make progress by engaging with experts and those with lived experiences to identify ways they can improve. “I think designers are learning quite fast,” she says. “If you sell clothes, you need to have adaptive lines too. We have petite, tall and maternity wear in most stores, and I want to see the same for adaptive clothing. It needs to become normalised so people have a choice and don’t have to shop from one clothing brand for the rest of their lives.”

LESS RANGE

Pockets with holes make dressing easier

GET DRESSED Head to the alterations section of Popsy Clothing at www.popsyclothing.co.uk to make your clothes as unique as you are.

When you place your order, you can alter the length, sleeves, pockets, and belt loops, ask for holes to be added for medical pumps, and ask for tags to be removed.

Browse Unhidden’s wide range of adaptive clothing online at www.unhiddenclothing.com. The brand uses disabled models, which can help customers picture how they’ll look in the clothes.

PICS: © BUSINESS DISABILITY FORUM; DEB BURROWS PHOTOGRAPHY; DREAMFACTORY; POPSY CLOTHING

Victoria Jenkins, founder of adaptive clothing brand Unhidden, personally understands the frustration of shopping for clothes on the high street, as well as the nightmare of navigating stores. “I have to do a bit of a smash and grab because I can’t stand up for very long,” she explains.

“If there’s a huge queue for the tills, that impacts me for the rest of the day.” She says many retailers make disabled people feel unwelcome because of accessibility issues on the shop floor and on the shelves.

“Almost one in four people in the UK can’t just get dressed and go about their business,” Victoria explains. “It’s not only

UNHIDDEN

There are more clothing ranges for dogs than there are for disabled people

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and Spot

to Orkney and Shetland Discover the Northern Isles with NorthLink Ferries.

The comfortable and reliable service offers sailings from Aberdeen to Lerwick, Shetland, with regular calls into Orkney’s capital of Kirkwall.

Alternatively travel to Orkney’s port of Stromness from Caithness. This 90 minute journey on MV Hamnavoe is the only sailing to Orkney which passes the iconic sea stack, the Old Man of Hoy. Passengers with a disability, those over the age of 60, and students in full time education are entitled to a 10% discount on passenger and vehicle fares. northlinkferries.co.uk Operated by

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THE BIG EVENT

Electrifying speaker lineup announced!

The Motability Scheme announces a brilliant lineup of speakers for The Big Event, Birmingham

T

he Motability Scheme will welcome an incredible range of inspiring speakers to the main stage of The Big Event, Birmingham at the NEC on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 May. From celebrities to Motability Scheme Ambassadors, auto industry and electric vehicle experts, this year’s speaker programme promises to inspire visitors.

Hosts Helen Dolphin MBE and Scheme Ambassador and former Royal Marine, Mark Ormrod MBE, will be there to take visitors through an exciting two-day lineup on the main stage and for those watching the live-stream.

There will be a range of interviews, presentations and panel discussions about inspiring personal stories, the evolution of electric vehicles, and how the Scheme is supporting their customers for the future of mobility.

Some of the highlights across the two days include: • ‘The Car Revolution’ – What Car? Editor Steve Huntingford and Lifestyle magazine’s Drive Editor Matt Lizzimore will offer their expert views about automotive innovation on Friday 17 May at 10am.

• ‘Blind Not Broken’ – join Motability Scheme Ambassador and disability influencer Lucy Edwards as she shares her journey from sight loss to becoming a thriving businesswoman. We’ll learn how her Scheme car enables her freedom on Friday 17 May at 10:30am.

• Steve Brown – Escape to the Country TV presenter, Paralympian and Scheme customer Steve will share his personal journey from Paralympian to TV presenter on Friday 17 May at 1pm.

• ‘Human Beauty: Accessible beauty for all’ – join host Helen Dolphin and Millie Flemington-Clare as they delve into the heart of beauty, accessibility and empowerment on Saturday 18 May at 10:30am.

• Will Bayley MBE and Darren Harris live interview – join host Mark Ormrod as he chats to Paralympian and former Strictly contestant Will Bayley and Paralympian Darren Harris about their unique life stories, personal struggles and what keeps them motivated.

Katie Clare, The Big Event Manager, explains: “Our speaker sessions lineup for

2024 is more exciting than ever, with a great range of Scheme customers, EV and automotive experts on stage.

“We hope visitors will leave feeling inspired, engaged and will learn something new about the Scheme during their visit. We can’t wait to welcome everyone.”

For anyone who can’t attend in person, The Big Event, Birmingham is also streamed live. Follow hosts Helen Dolphin and Scheme Ambassador, Mark Ormrod as they deliver all the best bits online from across the two days.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To see the full lineup of speaker sessions visit The Big Event website motabilitythebigevent.co.uk/ birmingham/speaker-sessions-lineup/ The Big Event, Birmingham is free to attend with plenty of free parking and a free cuppa! motabilitythebigevent.co.uk

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REVIEW

MAZDA MX-30 The Mazda MX-30 is a very different take on the compact battery-powered SUV. We took it out for a spin

INSIDE One of the first things you notice when you get into the Mazda MX-30 is the unusual rear door design.

The doors are hinged at the back to swing open in the opposite direction to the front doors, leaving a large, unobstructed space to get into the front or back seats.

It also makes stowing a wheelchair behind the front seat much easier than in other cars.

The front of the MX-30’s immaculately-built cabin affords plenty of comfort, space, and good vision to the front and sides, but

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the view is restricted over your shoulder and to the rear by the thick window pillars. That’s countered to some extent by all models coming with front and rear parking sensors as standard.

Another touch we like is the cork trim, which is a nod to Mazda’s history as a producer of this material.

Space in the back seats is fine for kids, but restricted for adults. A 350-litre boot is also on the small side for this size of car, and there’s a high sill with a big drop to the boot floor when you’re loading bigger items.

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Its automatic gearbox makes driving in traffic a pleasure

The Mazda MX-30 Prime-Line and Exclusive-Line models are available with zero advance payment through Motability, while the Makoto requires an advance payment of £499. All three models use the full higher rate mobility part of Personal Independence Payment.

Find out more at www.motability.co.uk

EQUIPMENT There are three trims to choose from with the Mazda MX-30, starting with the Prime-Line. This has 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic wipers and headlights, all-round parking sensors, and cruise control. You also get air conditioning, which is operated through the 7-inch infotainment screen, which offers Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and sat nav. This MX-30 has electric front windows, head-up display for the driver, and an impressive suite of safety kit. Move up to the Exclusive-Line model and you gain keyless entry, rear privacy glass, and leatherette inserts for the heated front seats with electric adjustment.

The top spec Makoto model comes with a 360-degree parking camera and display, electric sunroof, and adaptive headlights. There’s also an upgraded stereo, heated steering wheel, and additional safety technology with adaptive cruise control, driver fatigue alert, and front traffic warning.

DRIVING The best Mazda MX-30 is the MX-30 R-EV, which comes with a small petrol engine that works as a generator for the electric motor, extending the driving range to around 300 miles before you need to fill up with fuel. The R-EV requires an advance payment of £4,995 on the Exclusive-Line model through Motability. With the battery-only MX-30, the maximum claimed driving range is 124 miles on a full charge, which is about 100 miles in reality – just not enough for many journeys.

This is a real shame, as the MX-30 is one of the best EVs to drive. It’s fun, handles well, and deals with bumpy roads gracefully. There’s little road or wind noise to be heard in the cabin,

and acceleration is on a par with most superminis or small petrolpowered SUVs. It’s never out of its depth on the motorway, but you are conscious of the battery charge dropping quickly at higher speeds.

On the upside, both versions of the MX-30 have an automatic gearbox that makes driving in traffic or country lanes a real pleasure thanks to its slick, unflustered progress.

SUMMARY Quirkily different, the MX-30 appeals in many ways – its drive, looks, and quality – but the battery range is a major drawback.

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enable employment

Jane Hatton Jane is the founder of Evenbreak, a social enterprise run by and for disabled people, with a specialist job board and a career hive.

Send your questions to editor@dcpublishing.co.uk

EMPLOYMENT Q&A

JOB SEARCH HELP

In her column, Jane Hatton, founder of Evenbreak, answers your employment questions

Q

I’m disabled and need to look for a job. I’ve never been in this position before, so I don’t know where to start. I know the kind of job I want, but don’t know where to find it.

A

Life would be much easier if all jobs were advertised in the same place. But nothing is that straightforward! So where to look? Here are a few ideas:

JOB BOARDS

There are many job boards, including generic boards like Monster, Indeed, and Total Jobs. You can register with these and upload your CV. You should also look for job boards specialising in your sector (engineering, sales, hospitality, or charities, for example).

And, of course, look on Evenbreak, as employers who are actively looking to

attract disabled applicants advertise their jobs there. Set up job alerts so you are informed when any relevant positions come up.

JOBCENTRE PLUS

You can access available jobs online, over the phone or by visiting your local Jobcentre Plus, and advisors can tell you about any upcoming job fairs locally. Disability Employment Advisors should be able to help you search for relevant roles.

RECRUITMENT AGENCIES

There are a number of agencies, and some may specialise in your chosen sector. Be selective and perhaps just register with two or three. They’ll want to see your CV, and might want to interview you. If you’re not happy with their service, you can ask to be removed from their books and switch to another suitable agency.

BEING PROACTIVE

There’s no harm in contacting companies you would like to work for,

finding out if there are any suitable opportunities coming up, and sending in a speculative CV. Timing is everything, and sometimes you might appear just as they are looking for someone with your skill set. It’s a good idea to send a follow-up email every now and then, so you stay on their radar if a suitable role comes up.

We would advise using as many of these resources as you can – the more vacancies you find, the better your chances of finding a job that’s perfect for you.

Please look on Evenbreak (www.evenbreak.co.uk) for jobs with employers who are actively trying to attract disabled candidates, and set up alerts for the kinds of role you are interested in. If you require personalised career support, visit our Career Hive (hive.evenbreak.co.uk).

These services are free of charge.

Visit the Evenbreak website to access candidate resources free of charge: www.evenbreak.co.uk and hive.evenbreak.co.uk

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We’ve equality at our core.

We’ve been named as a disability confident employer by Jobcentre Plus and have a positive attitude towards job applications from disabled people.

As we progress, we’ll continue to improve the way that we support our staff, customers, and stakeholders, regardless of disability, gender, ethnicity, age, religion, or sexual orientation.

Unite is the union for the 21st century, meeting the greatest challenges facing working people with Disabilities.

It is a democratic and campaigning union, which fights back for employees in the Our Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion strategy is a priority at RoS. It’s not a one off or an event, it is an ongoing process, and we will work for our colleagues to feel safe, supported and included at work.

workplace, protects worker’s rights and takes trade unionism out to millions of unorganised workers.

We want to be an employer of choice, attracting and retaining the best and widest possible pool of talent.

www.unitetheunion.org

UniteNorthWest

@unite–northwest @unite–NorthWest Unitetheunion

e w n r u o Y career await s Every day in our region, we go to work to keep millions of homes’ taps flowing and toilets flushing. But we need your help. That’s why we’re looking for talented people to join us on our quest to protect our most precious resource, water.

At Anglian Water we believe that inclusion is for everyone. All are welcome, free to be themselves and valued for who they are.

We encourage a culture of openness, respect and honesty. Our Inclusion Community brings together people from all walks of life, to help us create an ongoing conversation about Inclusion at Anglian Water.

Join us and embrace the challenge to love every drop. visit anglianwatercareers.co.uk

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Right for the job Job interviews can be nerve-wracking at the best of times, but there are ways to make them easier – at least in terms of accessibility – if you have a disability

Y

ou’ve polished your CV to perfection. You took time to answer the application questions carefully. You’ve crossed everything you can cross. A job can bring freedom, a steady income, new friendships, a sense of purpose… so when you get that call inviting you to interview, you need to give it your best shot.

There were 5.53 million workingage disabled people in employment from October to December 2023, according to the latest figures

from the UK’s Office for National Statistics. The vast majority of them will have gone through a selection or interview process. Whether you face questions, need to carry out a task or give a presentation, there are many ways to make the interview experience as accessible as possible.

CONFIDENT

Disabled jobseekers can look out for Disability Confident employers (previously ‘Two Ticks’) when job hunting. The government scheme is designed to encourage employers to

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ACCESSING INTERVIEWS

So when it comes to job interviews, what does the law say? Firstly, you don’t need to tell an employer about your disability, but telling them about any adjustments you require prior to interview will help you both and ensure you’re not disadvantaged.

Reasonable adjustments might include taking your PA with you, asking for interview questions in advance, ensuring there’s space to accommodate your assistance animal, or asking for extra time to complete an assessment.

Secondly, employers need to remember that asking candidates questions about health or disability is against the law, under the Equality Act 2010.

PREPARATION IS EVERYTHING

work, such as voluntary work or life skills. The STAR method – thinking of a Situation where you faced a challenge, the Task you undertook to manage the situation (what role did you carry out, for example), what Action you took to resolve the problem, and finally the Result (what you learned and achieved) – is a useful way of answering questions during interview.

GETTING IT RIGHT

Bailey, who was recognised in Shaw Trust’s 2023 Disability Power 100 list, works as a sustainability manager in construction and civil engineering.

She’s also spent more than five years in a voluntary capacity heading up award-winning employee network groups focussing on disability, neurodivergence, and supporting carers in the workplace.

She had an “exceptionally inclusive and accommodating” experience with her latest job interview. “Right from the initial application stage, there was a clear opportunity to disclose disability or access needs,” she explains. “This proactive approach continued throughout the interview stages – for instance, when scheduling in-person interviews, the company enquired about specific accommodations required for the different interview formats.”

BEST PRACTICE

Preparing for your Bailey highlights good interview is vital. employer practices such Access to Work Start by requesting as offering reasonable provides funding for reasonable adjustments at the adjustments while you’re adjustments application stage, in employment, but it if you wish, maintaining good can also pay for support and research communication, with communication or more about the providing interview BSL interpretation at the employer – their agendas and interview stage (costs business, what accessibility are reimbursed after they do, why you’d information, and interview). like to work there. It’s regularly auditing a great idea to create a recruitment processes for list of questions you can ask accessibility. “This includes them about the role and business – it ensuring digital platforms are shows you’re interested, and gives accessible to all, and evaluating the you the chance to demonstrate how clarity of interview questions,” says you can fit into their team.

Bailey. That makes sense, given the Once you’re in the interview, it’s recent Buckland Review of Autism important to explain how you’ll Employment, which found that perform the tasks related to the “autistic jobseekers must navigate role, and to focus on your skills and vague, generic job descriptions, experience – both in work and out of ambiguous interview questions and

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To be inclusive and meet candidates’ access needs, the individual candidates need to be treated as individuals; on a case-by-case basis” Bailey challenging sensory environments, often with an emphasis on social skills rather than job skills”.

As more disabled people enter the workforce, it seems employers need to adjust their expectations of what constitutes a ‘good’ interviewee: what if you can’t give a handshake because of an upper limb impairment, for example? Or how about when maintaining good eye contact isn’t possible for an autistic candidate? The onus is on employers to get it right, to let disabled candidates’ skills shine through with confidence.

FOR MORE INFORMATION The Association of Disabled Professionals www.adp.org.uk offers guidance around issues like job interviews, barriers to work, and dealing with any problems that arise. www.scope.org.uk/employment offers tips on employment, managing interview anxiety and how to prepare for interview.

Follow Bailey at www.instagram.com/ disabilitywithbailey

MAIN PIC: © WWW.BUSINESSDISABILITYFORUM.ORG.UK

recruit and retain disabled people in a bid to change attitudes, cultures and behaviours around disability.

Of course, there’s no one-size-fitsall solution, as disability advocate Bailey says: “To be inclusive and meet candidates’ access needs, the individual candidates need to be treated as individuals; on a case-bycase basis. While this may require additional effort upfront, investing in inclusivity is beneficial for attracting top talent.”

A place of possibility We are Derwen! A specialist college

for young adults with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

We offer an vibrant and inclusive Scan to environment, delivering exceptional view our programmes, including vocational and Open Days independence training.

Our student needs include: • Moderate, severe, complex or profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD) • Physical disabilities • Autism • Behaviours of concern

Short Breaks at Derwen offers adults with learning disabilities and associated needs the opportunity to take a break and enjoy themselves.

We build your programme of activities around what you enjoy doing.

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Our Education Pathways provide a wide range curriculum including: • Individual learning programmes • Communication • Independent living skills • Work experience and supported internships • Personal & social development • Community engagement • Therapies • Qualifications, accreditation and awards

Apply now or enquire today 01743 872250 www.condovercollege.co.uk admissions@condovercl.org.uk

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Born to

STAND OUT

Stand Out Socks co-founder Christian shares his business’s mission to empower learning disabled people towards financial independence The Stand Out team

T

he pandemic was lifechanging for many, including Ross Laing, his brother Christian, and Christian’s fiancée Natalie. Ross has Down’s syndrome, which was very high on the shielding level. “Ross moved in with our parents,” says Christian.

Over time, his family watched Ross change from being funny and outgoing, to losing his confidence and spark.

“I was furloughed and started selling vintage clothing,” explains Christian.

“After Ross was jabbed and we could bubble, he helped me out with doing that.” But the family knew there was more they could do.

A NEW SPIN ON SOCKS

The link between socks and Down’s syndrome isn’t new – people with DS are born with an extra chromosome, which looks like a tiny sock under a microscope, plus we’re encouraged to wear odd socks for World Down Syndrome Day. “We decided to put our own spin on it,” says Christian. “The socks aren’t dull, so people say, ‘They’re a bit mad, where did you get them?’.

The wearer then becomes an advocate for inclusion.”

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The trio launched Stand Out with three sock designs.

The business has since gone on to sell worldwide, win the backing of Steven Bartlett and Peter Jones CBE on Dragons’ Den, and employ a team of people with DS. Stand Out is run as a business, not a charity, and every pair of socks sold supports learning disabled people towards financial independence.

“Everyone is paid for every hour they work,” reveals Christian. “Mark, who works here, is 33. He’d never had a paid job in his life – to give him his first pay slip was massive. Not just for him, but for us too.”

CHALLENGING THE STATUS QUO

The Stand Out team aims to inspire other businesses by showing what’s possible, as Christian explains: “To choose not to diversify your workforce so you get fresh perspectives from all walks of life and all abilities is crazy to me. We’re proving there’s a place in business for everybody.”

“I don’t think people appreciate what’s possible until they see it,” Christian tells us. Even Ross’s

I don’t think people appreciate what’s possible until they see it shenanigans on social media – from packing orders to relaxing with a beer – are helping change perceptions of what people with DS are capable of.

The future looks bright for Stand Out, with plans to grow the team. “There are a lot more people out there who could do with help getting a job. It’s not a gimmick,” Christian asserts. “It’s a proper business.

Stand Out will become known for being an inclusive workplace.”

FOR MORE INFORMATION To support Stand Out Socks, head to www.standoutsocks.co.uk

Every performance is now audio-described if you would like to use this facility, please call +4420 7836 1443 or email access@stmartinstheatre.co.uk to reserve your headsets.

Check the website for additional access performances.

TheMousetrap.co.uk | ST. MARTIN’S THEATRE

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