Challenges of a Speech Impairment: Inclusion starts with listening

As a disability trainer and speaker, I spend a lot of time helping others to understand the world through a more inclusive lens. People often ask me what’s the most challenging aspect about having Cerebral Palsy and I have to say, the biggest challenge I face is having a speech impairment. I understand that my […]

Disability Awareness in Alternative Provision Schools

I was recently approached by an alternative provision school about delivering my Disability Awareness Assembly. These are normally aimed at Key Stage 1 & 2 and I normally deliver them in front of each key stage group, before taking questions from the children. On some occasions, I deliver the assembly and then visit each classroom […]

From Fears to Triumph: Parenting with Cerebral Palsy

Parenthood is a life-changing experience for anyone, sprinkled with joy and laughter, tears and challenges. For me, the journey has been uniquely shaped by my experience with Cerebral Palsy. As a mum with CP, I’ve navigated a path that combines the typical ups and downs of parenthood with the additional challenges posed by my disability. […]

Debunking Myths: The Realities of Living with Cerebral Palsy

I’ve had Cerebral Palsy since birth (over 40 years ago!) and over the years, it’s surprised me how many people aren’t aware of the condition. I often encounter many myths about the condition and as March is Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month (CP), it’s an ideal opportunity to address the truths about the condition. But firstly, […]

Independence in Motion: Honouring International Wheelchair Day

It’s International Wheelchair Day and an ideal opportunity to celebrate being a wheelchair user!  That might sound strange to some. However, having had Cerebral Palsy since birth, I’ve used an electric wheelchair since I was about sixteen.  It really has transformed my life and given me an independence I wouldn’t have enjoyed otherwise. I’ve often […]

The Strength of Love: Finding emotional support on difficult days

It’s something people have commented on as long as I can remember. “You’re always smiling. You’re always so happy”.  And for the most part, it’s true. I see my disability as a positive aspect of who I am. However, now and again, fighting against the barriers which society puts in my way as a disabled […]

Disability Etiquette: Why it’s important

It’s now 2024 (Happy New Year!) and even now, disability is a taboo subject. In my forty years of having Cerebral Palsy, I’ve experienced many reactions to my disability. I’ve seen how people struggle to interact with me. They’re often not sure what to say or they want to offer support but they’re worried about […]

Another year of School Climate Change Conferences

This year I was proud to support two local School Climate Change Conferences, organised by the Interclimate Network and supported by Just Ideas. The conferences bring a number of local schools together and in groups of four, the students recreate the annual COP conference and debate the issues surrounding Climate Change. Lively and Passionate Debate […]

Accessible taxi in Birmingham? Not a chance

I have had to postpone work as I can’t book an accessible taxi in the UK’s second largest city.

Accessible Taxi Wanted – with a good attitude

I’m looking for an accessible taxi with a good attitude and that’s essential