Durham Dis-able: When Disability Advocacy Excludes Disabled Voices

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Durham Dis-able: When Disability Advocacy Excludes Disabled Voices

Yet you (DurhamEnable) didn’t support me or the significant work I’ve put into advocacy around medical cannabis.



Excluding disabled advocates due to prescribed medical cannabis is never a positive step — it moves advocacy in the wrong direction. Bambi and I worked exceptionally hard together, which makes it incredibly disappointing to see my voice silenced rather than supported.


For context, I also contribute safeguarding work relating to children alongside Durham County Council — unpaid — because protecting vulnerable people matters deeply to me. I’m apparently trusted to support safeguarding work, yet excluded from your advocacy spaces because of prescribed medical cannabis.


That contradiction speaks volumes.


It’s disrespectful to the work disabled advocates are doing, and it sends the wrong message about inclusion.


Sarah Wingfield

Independent Disability Advocate

KawaiiDollDecora.uk


If you can't be helpful - DON'T be harmful.


#disabilityinclusion #strongertogether #disability #disabilityawareness #disabilitysupport #disabilityrights


DurhamEnable


Alt text:


Screenshot of a Facebook post by DurhamEnable celebrating International Women’s Day on 8 March. The post features a collage of pink-themed graphics highlighting women who work with the organisation. The main banner reads “International Women’s Day – March 8” with logos for Connect to Work and the North East Combined Authority. Portrait panels show staff members including Carole Williamson (In-Work Support & Training Officer), Melanie Kearney (Team Leader), Bambi French (Team Leader), and Charlotte Daglish (Engagement Officer), each alongside motivational quotes about confidence, strength, and positive change. The overall theme celebrates women in the workplace and inclusion.

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