Disability pride – amplify your story.
- Healthwatch Southend
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
July is Disability Pride Month, a good opportunity to celebrate the lives, achievements, identities and contributions of disabled people, whilst also recognising the barriers many still face every day.
Celebrated in the UK since 2015, Disability Pride Month encourages us to challenge stereotypes, tackle stigma and promote a more inclusive society.
Not everyone starts from the same place. Making reasonable adjustments and removing barriers helps ensure people with disabilities can access health and social care on more equal footing.
In Southend, thousands of people live with disabilities and long-term health conditions. Some disabilities are visible, such as mobility or sensory impairments.
Others are hidden, including conditions such as autism, ADHD, learning disabilities, chronic pain, mental health conditions, epilepsy, blindness, hearing loss and many long-term health conditions.
Although awareness is growing, stigma still exists.
People with visible disabilities may face assumptions about what they can or cannot do, while those with hidden disabilities are sometimes met with disbelief or feel they must justify their needs repeatedly.
No one should have to prove their disability to receive understanding, appropriate support or accessible care.
At Healthwatch Southend, we know that listening to people's experiences is one of the best ways to improve health and social care. Whether your experience has been positive or challenging, your feedback helps us understand what's working well and where improvements are needed.
We share what local people tell us with NHS and social care decision-makers to help shape future services. What you share informs the improvements made to the accessibility standards of Southend Hospital & beyond!
If you're unsure where to turn for information about local health or social care services, Healthwatch Southend may also be able to help. We can provide information, signpost you to local services and help you find trusted advice.
If you'd like to share your experience of health or social care in Southend, we'd love to hear from you. Your story could help make a difference for others.
Useful resources
Southend Mencap is a charity providing advocacy and family support as well as clubs and social groups for people with a learning disability.
DIAL South Essex provide information and advice support for any issue involving a disability
Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a growing symbol of communicating that a person has a disability which may not be easily identified otherwise.
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