PGP / SPD My story:

Shining a Light on Disability: My Upcoming Talk on Disability Awareness For as long as I can remember, I’ve carried the weight of being unseen—of living in a world that wasn’t built for people like me. Not just physically, but socially, emotionally, and culturally. And yet, it’s precisely because of these experiences that I feel a responsibility to speak up, to share what I’ve learned, and to challenge the assumptions and barriers that too often go unquestioned. Very soon, I’ll be giving a talk on disability awareness. This isn’t just another event on the calendar for me—it’s a chance to create understanding, to shine a light on realities many people don’t see, and to give voice to those often unheard. I’ll be sharing my personal journey: the daily challenges, the moments of invisibility, and the resilience it takes to navigate a world that isn’t always accommodating. But I’ll also be highlighting hope, possibility, and the change that is within our reach when awareness meets action. D...

From Argument to Advocacy: My Journey of Healing There was a time when I was quick to argue, always ready to defend myself against anyone who misunderstood me or dismissed my perspective. I carried so much pain, injustice, and frustration that it spilled into the way I communicated. If someone challenged me, I pushed back — hard. Looking back, I can see that this was less about the discussion itself and more about my own need to be heard, believed, and validated. But healing changes you. Today, I no longer argue for the sake of it. I state my points, calmly and clearly, and then I leave it there. Not because I don’t care, but because I’ve learned that not everyone listens to understand. Many people simply talk at others, desperate to push out their own view without really absorbing what’s being said. And that’s okay — healing takes time, and not everyone is there yet. When something doesn’t make sense, I will still challenge it — because I believe our communities deserve better. But I...

Committing to Growth: Level 2 Understanding Domestic Abuse I’ve just signed up for another online course! Over the next few months, I’ll be undertaking Level 2: Understanding Domestic Abuse with the Learning Curve Group, and I couldn’t be more excited. For me, every course is more than just a qualification—it’s an opportunity to deepen my understanding, enhance my skills, and grow as an advocate. Busy, busy 🐝 is an understatement! As I work through this course, I’ve been putting my own systems in place to ensure I retain and engage with the material fully. I draft my answers in Google Docs before submitting them online, carefully reviewing and refining my work. I take detailed notes alongside my answers to create a resource I can revisit and learn from long after the course is completed. This method has transformed how I study, helping me to internalise complex concepts and apply them practically in my charity and volunteer work. Every module I complete feels like another step in a j...

What a Disability Advocate Actually Does (and Why I’m Different) A disability advocate is someone who stands up for disabled people’s rights , access, and dignity. Advocates challenge unfair systems, support people through complex processes, and ensure their voices are heard when they are often ignored. Advocacy is about empowering individuals to access the support and services they are entitled to, and holding services, councils, and policies accountable. I have been doing this work for over two decades, informed by both professional training and lived experience. My work includes: Helping disabled people secure accessible housing and adaptations to live safely and independently. Supporting people through Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications and appeals. Sharing knowledge about Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction (SPD), helping women manage the condition and, in some cases, avoid requiring wheelchairs. Implementing practical changes, such as securing seating at bus stops so peop...

New art drop: ~* I sparkle differently, and that's my superpower *~  Kawaii Doll Decora ✨  #kawaiiaesthetic #kawaii #cute #chibi #cyute #y2k #bubblegum #kawaiifit #glitter #bubblegumbabe #popart #trippy #bright #artist #art #manga #bold  Alt text: A vibrant, kawaii-inspired digital artwork filled with rainbow colors and glittery details. The central figure is a stylized character with neon green and rainbow-shaded skin, purple hair with bangs, and striking makeup including heart and star accents. They wear a black spiked choker and a pastel necklace with a small cloud charm. The background is busy with kawaii icons like a white bunny, skulls, hearts, candy, flowers, and stickers. Bright Japanese text, emojis, and sparkles add to the chaotic, fun aesthetic. At the top, inside a pink cloud, is the quote: “I sparkle differently, and that’s my superpower.” The name Sarah appears above the quote. The bottom features the watermark “@KawaiiDollDecora.”

Diamond Dogs (2025) Review – A Quirky, Chaotic British Heist Caper With Heart A solid 7/10 stars! By Sarah Wingfield The heist movie has had many incarnations over the years—from the smooth precision of Ocean’s Eleven to the slapstick charm of The Pink Panther . But Diamond Dogs (2025), directed by Kris Smith and co-written with Joseph Betts , barrels onto the screen with a distinctly British flavour—equal parts crime caper, comedy of errors, and heartwarming ode to friendship. The story follows the legendary bromance of Paul Canterbury ( Nick Elliott ) and Rick Foster ( Andy Blithe ), whose cheeky banter and quick-fire one-liners carry the film from its slow-burn opening to its chaotic, diamond-studded finale. Their bond is instantly endearing: whether trading jabs about air fryers, stumbling through slapstick antics, or breaking into tangents mid-conversation (as we all know someone does), the duo feel refreshingly authentic. What sets Diamond Dogs apart from many low-budget heis...

Putting Yourself Out There Isn’t Easy Anymore: These days, putting yourself out there—whether as an advocate, an influencer, or simply someone trying to bring people together—is far from easy. Access to people seems like an open target, and the moment you step forward with good intentions, you expose yourself to criticism, ridicule, or worse. I’ve seen too many advocates and influencers lost to suicide, depression, and bullying. My condolences go out to their families and friends, because I know firsthand how isolating and painful that journey can be. As an autistic individual living with several disabilities, I understand how simply being different—and daring to want to help others—can make you a target. Thankfully, as a survivor of abuse, I’ve developed the stomach to withstand a lot. But that doesn’t mean I’m immune. The last few experiences of mistreatment I’ve endured have still taken a toll. And the harder I try to help my community, the more I see clique-led hate campaigns worki...

I’ve Booked My Driving Test! The Road to Freedom is in Sight! It’s finally happening — after all the lessons, the nerves, the little victories, and the big wobbles, I’m officially one step closer to passing my driving test . Today, I booked my practical test for November! When I pressed that “confirm” button, my heart did a little backflip. This is it — the countdown has started. In just a few months, I could be holding that pass certificate in my hands, with the open road calling my name. I have to give a huge shout-out to my amazing instructor, Andy. His patience, calm energy, and encouragement have been such a massive part of this journey. No question is too silly, no mistake too big — he always finds a way to help me understand and improve. And honestly, without the Motability Scheme , this dream wouldn’t even be possible. It’s given me the opportunity to learn and have a car that meets my needs, in an automatic that feels safe, comfortable, and mine. For so many disabled drivers, ...

Ayclive: Accessibility Denied ♿: Shame it wasn’t extended to some disabled attendees 💔. Asking for positive reviews won’t undo the damage — it’s on film. After my bad experience, I even created an accessibility checklist to help your future events, but instead of engaging, you blocked my Facebook page. I’ve been involved in #Ayclive for the last three years, sharing and promoting it — and the thanks I got was abuse, with a manager openly proud of that abuse. All caught on film. My mistake for thinking you genuinely cared about #Aycliffe 🫶🏻 Sarah Wingfield Newtonian and Independent Disability Advocate I bet this other Facebook account will be blocked again, just to silence me. How dare I try to safeguard my community. Do organisations no longer care about fixing bad experiences? Is silencing and blocking those they’ve mistreated now the new “customer service” standard? #disabilityinclusion #strongertogether #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilitysupport #disabilityrights Alt tex...

 Today I enjoyed some sunnyshine 🌞 as I stepped into my role as an Independent Visitor . I listened to some wonderful tunes on the bus and soaked up the scenery along the way. Had a coffee in town, then came home to snuggles from my parents’ little doggy 🐾 and some wonderfully weird duplex YouTube videos about hauntings my son wanted to show me. Lol 😆 It’s been an interesting little day! Tomorrow it’s my driving lesson, so I’m keeping moving forward — onwards and upwards, as they say! Stay rocking at kindness ! 🤘🏻 Xx ❤️ Sarah Wingfield Alt text: A female person with long bright red hair is smiling and sticking out their pierced tongue while making a rock hand gesture 🤘🏻. They are wearing pink-and-white cat ear headphones, glasses, a tongue bar, a lip ring, a black moon nose piercing, a black top with a white vampire teeth design, a green disability positive sunflower lanyard, and a pastel beaded bracelet. There is a grey bag over her shoulder.The background shows greenery ...

Outside of the box: I exist outside of the box — acknowledge the hate, acknowledge the love, but never wear the weight of other people’s opinions. Be yourself. Put off those who aren’t in alignment, so you’re free to be around people who see you. You are loved. You are worthy of love — exactly as you are. ❤️ Sarah Wingfield Author 🌹  #autismawareness #autismacceptance #autismsupport #disabilityinclusion #strongertogether #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilitysupport #disabilityrights Alt text: A three-panel comic by @wizardsofautism. Panel 1: A pink, happy, blob-like character inside a box with the label “Autistics.” Panel 2: The blob starts to step out of the box, smiling, with the text “I should start being open about my needs.” Panel 3: The blob is halfway out but recoils in distress as words like “Dramatic!”, “Spoiled!”, “Rude!”, “Weird!”, and “Annoying!” are thrown at it. The final image shows the blob back in the box smiling again, with the caption “NEVER AGAIN.”

Overload, Support, and Purpose: My Journey : I have an important meeting and an appointment today, so I’ve cancelled all other plans to focus on these. Yesterday, my housing officer came earlier than expected — before my breakthrough worker arrived. Breakthrough is a DCC service that helps me declutter and organise because of my mobility issues. I’m glad I still have this support and that it hasn’t been sabotaged yet, especially given what I’ve seen happen to other services. I rely on it. She may have thought she was helping by offering to remove my stairlift — one of my most needed and relied-upon mobility aids. But this triggered me and made me feel invalidated. I literally used the stairlift the night before. I guess I mask well, but seriously?! The sudden change caught me off guard and inside I was screaming, though outside I just said, “Yeah, it’s fine, come in.” I wasn’t fine. On top of everything else from yesterday, it all pushed me into overload. I broke. I reached out to my F...

 📣 Accessibility Advocacy Update 📣 I’ve contacted both Redcar & Cleveland Council (contactus@redcar-cleveland.gov.uk) and Saltburn, Marske and New Marske Parish Council (office@smnmpc.co.uk) regarding the lack of disabled parking bays outside the Coco & Rum Thai restaurant in Saltburn. Let’s see if they can add one or two designated disabled bays to the small car park next to the premises — a simple step that would go a long way in making Saltburn more #Accessible and #Inclusive for disabled residents and visitors. I included photos in the email which show that the layout of the car park could easily accommodate one or two accessible spaces with minimal adjustment. I also want to thank the Coco & Rum team directly. They were kind, helpful, and made an effort to explain who the car park belongs to — which helped me direct my advocacy to the appropriate authorities. I’ve forwarded my council email to them for reference and shared the following message: --- ✉️ Email to C...

EDS, Hypermobility and hEDS/EDhS affect everyone differently—even when we share the same diagnosis. Many of us experience similar symptoms and familial patterns, but our day-to-day realities can vary hugely. This is just one version of how EDS can show up in someone’s life. For example, I don’t have flat feet—but I’m affected by nearly everything else on this list, and more. I'm proud to share this to raise awareness, because dynamic disabilities and invisible illnesses aren’t something you can see. You can't diagnose us with your eyes. So I ask you—look beyond the photo. Think outside the frame. See the whole picture. Thank you for taking the time to read. If you know someone with an invisible illness, why not share this with them? Let’s remind them: You are loved. You are seen. You are not alone. With love, Sarah Wingfield ❤️ Independent Disability Advocate #DisabilityInclusion #StrongerTogether #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilitySupport #DisabilityRights #ChronicIllnessWarrior ...

Fighting for Community: Why The Aviator Matters More Than Ever Something powerful happens when people come together — when a space opens its doors to everyone, no matter their background, ability, or walk of life. That’s what The Aviator Sports & Live Lounge has done for our town. And now, it’s under threat. For years, The Aviator has been more than just a venue. It’s been a beating heart in Newton Aycliffe. A place for celebration, connection, live music, family events, sports, comfort food, and spontaneous laughter with strangers who become friends. It’s one of the rare spaces that makes you feel like you belong — and in a world that can feel so divided and isolating, that’s priceless. As a disabled woman, I’ve often found public spaces either inaccessible or unwelcoming. But not The Aviator. It’s one of the few places where I’ve never had to fight to be included. The staff have always been kind, attentive, and respectful. I can just be. That shouldn’t be rare — but sadly, it is....

Finding Calm Through Pages: My New Tool for Healing and Hope: By Sarah Wingfield I recently discovered that Mind Charity has teamed up with Paperchase, and some of their beautiful and thoughtfully designed stationery is now available in selected Tesco stores. It might just be a notebook to some, but for me, it’s become something much more. I'm currently using one of these books to help me process both the good and bad days — to gently unpick the threads of harm, to understand the weight I carry, and to find my way back to myself after pain. Writing has always been one of my ways to cope, reflect, and recover, especially as someone who is disabled and neurodivergent. But this notebook has added a little spark — a reminder that support and beauty can coexist. That healing doesn’t always have to be loud. Sometimes, it’s found quietly in ink, intention, and a blank page. I'm also using it to set new goals for advocacy, to reignite my drive for positive change, and to hold space for...

  https://www.facebook.com/share/p/18jhfpj2f2/ If I had known that simply asking for accountability and an apology would lead to being ostracised in my hometown — to sabotage, abuse, organisations lying to the police, a false Community Protection Notice, and the loss of my voice as a disabled advocate — I might never have spoken up. But I did, because I believed in truth and justice. Now, Ayclive have joined in by blocking me from their page, after mistreating me and failing to make reasonable adjustments for my disabilities. It really makes you feel the “love” from your hometown, doesn’t it? The support group that coerced members into giving false statements against me is still operating. The man in the photo — who refused me a lift, prioritised PR over disability rights, and also gave false information to the police — is now a councillor. Durham County Council removed employment support from DurhamEnable, and silenced my advocacy because I’m legally prescribed medical cannabis. T...

Public Statement: Speaking Up Shouldn’t Mean Being Silenced I’ve taken some time to reflect before saying anything publicly. But recent events have left me confused, disheartened, and needing to share what’s happened—not for attention or conflict, but because I believe in honesty, fairness, and the importance of being heard. As a disabled advocate and resident of County Durham, I recently raised a formal complaint about the conduct of a sitting councillor. This wasn’t something I did lightly. The behaviour I flagged involved public misinformation, a misuse of influence, and actions that had already harmed me and others in the community—especially those of us who are vulnerable or marginalised. I submitted my complaint with context, evidence, and a respectful request for anonymity due to past targeting. Despite this, I was told the complaint is unlikely to proceed, that my name cannot be protected, and that I may wish to withdraw it. What I’m struggling to understand is this: How is it ...

Speaking Up – Preparing for My Disability Awareness Talk By Sarah Wingfield 🌹 I’m so excited to have been invited to deliver a Disability Awareness Talk as part of my ongoing community advocacy work. It genuinely means so much to be trusted with a platform to speak honestly about lived experience, challenge bias, and offer insight into the realities of disability. This isn’t just a talk—it’s part of my mission to create safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone. What I’m Preparing My talk will blend personal storytelling with education and a strong call to action. I’ll be discussing things like: What dynamic and invisible disabilities are—and how they affect us day to day How language, judgment, and assumptions impact the disabled community Real examples of ableism and how we can dismantle it, together The importance of accessibility, understanding, and support in every space I’ve worked hard to make this talk engaging and inclusive. Even the introduction includes a visual description...

Image Alt text: Black background with white text: Event Accessibility Checklist by Sarah Wingfield. Image also has a white logo of a heart with Kawaii Doll Decora stated inside at the top. Accessibility Improvements – Ayclive: Comprehensive Inclusion Checklist, by Sarah Wingfield 🌹  Sensory Bags (Available for Borrowing or Renting) Each sensory bag should include: Noise-cancelling headphones or ear defenders Fidget toys (including different textures and types for sensory regulation) Mood cards (to help communicate feelings non-verbally) Sunglasses or coloured overlays for light sensitivity Tissues and grounding items (e.g. soft fabric, small weighted object) Laminated sensory cue cards with simple statements (e.g. "I need a break", "Please speak slowly") --- Disability Support Team A visible, designated team trained in autism, chronic illness, sensory processing disorders, and mental health conditions Staffed by individuals who are calm, respectful, and trained in ...

Improving Accessibility and Inclusion at Ayclive Festival I have emailed the following: Dear Ayclive Festival Team, I’m reaching out in the hope of initiating a constructive dialogue regarding accessibility and disability inclusion at Ayclive. Putting aside the personal bias I experienced in person from the manager, Paul Howarth, I want to clarify that I don’t hate your festival. In fact, I care deeply about making it better—not just for myself, but for all disabled residents of Newton Aycliffe. My goal is simply to see improved support and awareness for those with disabilities, particularly invisible illnesses, so that Ayclive can be a more welcoming event for everyone in our community. I was disappointed to be blocked from the Ayclive page, as it appeared to be a way of silencing legitimate concerns. Rather than shut people out, I believe there is real opportunity here to collaborate and grow. As an Independent Disability Advocate, I would be more than willing to work with your team ...

Seeking Compassion - Humour helps: One of my strongest memories from Ayclive is also one of the hardest. I was shaking, in pain, and sat on the floor at the entrance — overwhelmed, ignored, and treated with hostility. In the middle of all that, someone asked me for my ticket QR code. I said, “I’ll see if I can find that for you… and while I’m at it, maybe I’ll try and find some compassion too — it seems to be in short supply.” One of the few kind staff nearby chuckled, and so did I. I was having a PTSD flashback, completely caught up in a wave of panic and helplessness — but that moment of humour, my own defiance in the face of it all, snapped me out of it. Even as I relived the trauma, the memory of that small spark made me giggle again. And reminded me: humour is a valid coping strategy. Whoever said it isn’t clearly hasn’t needed it like we have. — Sarah Independent Disability Advocate #Disability #DisabilityInclusion #PTSDRecovery #DisabledAndProud #StrongerTogether #ChronicIllness...

 Re-Traumatisation Is Real — And We Need to Talk About It There’s a quiet kind of pain that doesn’t always get acknowledged. It hides in plain sight. It can be triggered by the smallest moment — a look, a tone, an act of exclusion — and suddenly, you’re no longer in the present. You’re back there. Back in the memory. Back in the pain. That’s re-traumatisation. And it’s more common than people realise. What Is Re-Traumatisation? Re-traumatisation happens when something in the present activates the same emotional or physiological response you had during a past traumatic event. It can be loud — like a meltdown, panic attack, or visible distress — but more often, it’s quiet. It looks like shutting down. Dissociating. Going non-verbal. Suddenly freezing. Shaking. Tears you didn’t expect. It’s the body remembering. It’s the nervous system going, “We’ve been here before — and last time, we weren’t safe.” This isn’t weakness. This isn’t overreacting. This is biology. Psychology. Survival. ...