I’m always mindful when writing as a carer of 43 years that I’ve had it relatively easy. Jen has been blessed with good health, so our challenges have mostly been intellectually, socially and emotionally focused. The lot of a carer is fraught with uncertainty and often significant financial sacrifice. We find ourselves needing eyes in the back of our heads … Read More
We have no idea what’s possible
30 years ago, May 1995, Jen aged 13 lay on a blanket under the pear tree in the garden whilst we planted an orchard. She was incapable of doing anything else. Jen had already been receiving medical intervention for 3 weeks. 1 day later she was in hospital and we were advised that she was terminally ill. At best she … Read More
Inclusion in Practice
“Inclusive education is a national priority—and a shared responsibility.” says Tom Rees, Chair of the DfE’s Expert Advisory Group for Inclusion. We agree! We’ve submitted the following to the enquiry, and have offered our support to engage further happy to share all we’ve learnt from our personal experiences: Social change is imperative if we are to create a fairer, more … Read More
Support must be fit for purpose – begin by listening
In all parts of our lives we find systems which are meant to be helpful. Support to navigate a certain aspect or point in time. Everyone accepts that ‘the system’ is broken. But until we listen intelligently to individuals, people with learning disabilities will continue to remain invisible. If we value everybody, truly believe in equity and equality of opportunity, … Read More
Eternal Opportunism
I have a problem. I have eternal opportunism written into my DNA. My glass is (almost) always half full, because if half empty I’d have walked off the end of that metaphorical short plank a long long time ago; or as Malcolm says, it keeps the men in white coats at bay. So how about you? Do you have clear … Read More
Thank you for being part of extraordinary lives
We have so much to give thanks for. So many people over the years have said “yes”, or “I don’t know but have you tried…” and supported our ambition that Jen born with Down’s syndrome, and others like her to be treated like any other human being – having the right support and opportunities to pursue their dreams and follow … Read More
Holidaying Blackwell style
What a beautiful summer at the end of a beautiful year from nomadics living our lives of choice. I feel like the luckiest person alive as Malcolm and I celebrate 46 years of marriage. Pity about the weather! Depression after depression after depression this August 2024, but the right place for us to be is out on the water. Otherwise … Read More
Do you see me
For Learning Disability Awareness Week 2024 this question, “Do you see me?” posed by Mencap is so deep and so profound, whilst simultaneously distressing, disappointing, and painful that it even merits consideration. It is a sad travesty of the 21st century, an inditement of the way society has stood idly by as people who happen to be learning disabled or … Read More
We are all different
Just a few days ago Malcolm and I were camping with our trusty ‘big’ car tent (top left) by ourselves as it turned out, soaking up the glorious view over Lostwithiel in Devon. Whilst Jen, was loving living in style for a couple of days at the fancy Rubens Hotel, Buckingham Palace Road. She loves the whole experience of being … Read More
Blowing in the wind
There are times in life you feel in control, and others where you feel powerless, inconsequential, insignificant, incapable. My nature is to be positive, driven, energetic, but just now I’m riding the roller coaster of grief after my mum passed away a few weeks ago. It’s difficult to focus. You think you’re on top of it, putting on your ‘can … Read More