Tag Archives: learning 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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Panto and parity

TweetHappy New Year – and seeing as we’ve just had panto season (oh yes we have – sorry, couldn’t resist) here’s one fairy tale I wish would come true: Once upon a time, in a land far away, people who … Continue reading

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Bricks and mobility: buildings and disability history

TweetA gap in a church wall speaks volumes about the history of disability in England; lepers’ squints allowed people with leprosy to see the pulpit and hear the service through a small chink in the stonework, without coming into contact … Continue reading

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