In the UK people who have a disability have much greater barriers to overcome especially with gaining and maintaining employment and achieving independence.  The aims of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities is to raise awareness and promote understanding of the contribution that disabled persons can bring to the table.   In the UK there are over 14 million people with disabilities and it is estimated that 1 in 5 people will be effected by a disability in their lifetime.

In recent years purple has been increasingly been associated with disability and symbolises a new positive statement about the positive impact that disabled people can make both in the workforce and wider community.

Wearing purple can show that we see through the disability to the person – the ability, the potential, the pride and the change that is needed to make our world fairer.  Today I have wore purple with pride.  Additionally I am especially proud to work with the national disability charity Leonard Cheshire.  It has been a privilege during the pandemic to help both staff and residents as a volunteer.  We are all vulnerable to change – a simple accident or change in health can result in our situation changing overnight.

As well as caring for severely disabled people in care homes throughout the UK Leonard Cheshire provide support and opportunities to help other disabled people gain qualifications and valuable work experience to help them to contribute to society and feel valued.

There are numerous ways in which you can help – by spreading awareness, volunteering your skills, knowledge and time, fund raising or making a contribution towards specific projects.  To find out more about how you can help disabled people in Wales via Leonard Cheshire visit https://www.leonardcheshire.org/our-impact/our-uk-work/wales

Love and Light

Lisa

Hypnotherapist, Healer & Counsellor