Category Archives: Disability

Tailor-made technology: systems and support in social care

TweetJulie Heightley was so worried about her son Thomas suffering an epileptic fit at night that for two years she slept on a camp bed outside his room. The broken sleep and constant supervision of Thomas, who has autism and … Continue reading

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“It’s important that while I’m having fun, Stanley is having a great time too”

Tweet Stanley Holes is, says his little brother Albie in the brief video diary above, simply “the best brother I could ever have.” Albie’s love for his 16-year-old brother is reflected in this short film which I just watched and … Continue reading

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Art thinks outside the box

TweetOne glance at James Lake’s giant 3D portrait of baritone David Rushbrook, and you may never look at a cardboard box the same way again. Lake’s showstopping sculpture, created through the painstaking layering of cardboard, is intended to move, sing … Continue reading

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Puck, peppermint tea and posh frocks: my fabulous sister

TweetLearning disability charity Mencap has a marvellous blog, which features, amongst other things, some very personal contributions. The site recently featured a lovely and touching piece from journalist and Mission to Lars filmmaker Kate Spicer on her brother Tom (he … Continue reading

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A different perspective on learning disability

Tweet A stereotype-shattering art project, which uses photography to counter negative mainstream attitudes towards people with Down’s syndrome, is showcasing the last eight years of its work. Shifting Perspectives Photographic Exhibition 2005 – 2013 is at the South Bank in … Continue reading

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“People who have a learning disability have the right to good services, choices and a good life”

TweetIf only more people had the chance to develop in confidence like Laura Minett. Laura, who I interviewed for a Guardian social care piece today, works as an expert by experience. Her part-time role through the charity which supports her, … Continue reading

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“I am valuable. I can still shine and I will still go on”

TweetHuge lashes sweeping over her eyelids, face framed by diamante and skin shining gold, this is a photographic portrayal of how Samona Naomi Williams feels some days: valuable, not a burden to society. Yet Samona, a wheelchair user who Ehlers-Danlos … Continue reading

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Pertti, punk and pedicures

Tweet“I need a little respect and equality in my life” “Decision-makers are cheaters, they suck..they don’t give a sh*t about us disabled” “I don’t want to live in a group home, I don’t want to live in an institution” “They … Continue reading

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Learning disability charity needs your vote in e-card competition

Tweet Okay, so it isn’t yet December, but can you really look at this this frosty little fellow and fail to feel even a tiny bit festive? He’s just one artistic entry in the charity Netbuddy’s Christmas e-card competition The … Continue reading

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Disability history: “I quite clearly remember being tied to the cot sides”

Tweet“I quite clearly remember being tied to the cot sides,” recalls Florence, now in her 70s, of the childhood she spent in hospital. “Literally, two wrists tied to the cot sides with cotton tape so as I couldn’t get up … Continue reading

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