It brings to life the realities of the challenges disabled children, young people and their families face in living a life that many other members of society will not have to even consider. It reveals the parts of their lives that most people simply do not see.
Scroll to the bottom of this page to see blogs and videos from families with disabled children sharing their #SecretLifeOfUs. Share them and help us spread the word.
Having a disabled child is not a tragedy nor a cause for pity. The injustice is that families do not receive the support to which they are entitled to and that barriers exist in society that prevent families from have equality in opportunity to others. During the pandemic, this situation was only made worse by even more support services being delayed.
Every parent carer, disabled young person and family member has the potential to achieve great things in society – but all too often these barriers, and restricted support, stop the entire family from being able to achieve their full potential.
Developed in close partnership with parents, #SecretLifeOfUs campaigns to raise awareness of these barriers, change attitudes, challenge myths, and create better understanding.
Are you a parent carer or disabled young person? Please email us to share your #SecretLifeOfUs (disabledchildrens.partnership@mencap.org.uk). It could be a blog, video, poem or more. You could share challenges you face, or lovely positive experiences your family sees.
Read and share #SecretLifeOfUs stories below.
Toby loves playing outside and racing around with his friends. Toby started wheelchair racing when he was 7 and he’s never looked back. He also takes part in triathlons, basketball and wheelchair BMX all over the country. Watch Toby’s video to to hear his story,
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Millie loves playing in the park and going on the swing. But, we can only take Millie to the park every three months. When a child is in a wheelchair it takes planning. Watch Millie’s video to to hear her story,
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Like many 10 year olds, Rishi spends as much time as possible on his iPad. Unlike many 10 year olds, however, he struggles to communicate and understand others because of his autism.
Read his story, as told by mum Ramya.
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Holly is 14 and a Girl Guide who loves baking and hanging out with her friends. She also has life-limiting illness.
Read her story, as told by mum Hayley.
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