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.
Ellis, 10, doesn’t stop his disabilities getting in the way of doing the things he loves. His mum, Lisa, tells us how she feels let down by the system, and why people need to understand more about invisible disabilities.
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Angelina’s son has complex needs and requires 24/7 care. Having access to overnight short breaks allows Angelina to get the sleep she needs, while her son has the chance to see his friends, and do the activities he enjoys.
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There’s a part of Cathryn’s life you do see: she’s 21, studying at university, and is really politically engaged. But there’s also part of her life you do not see: her hidden disabilities, which are her constant companions. Both parts are equally hers, and neither should stop her having a fulfilling life filled with exciting opportunities. She just needs support to do so.
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It is important for us to include Cameron in family activities so he can someday gain independence. He has recently started to learn how to walk, and we love to celebrate all that he achieves rather than focus on the barriers he faces.
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