PGP / SPD My story:

Real Pain Management Isn’t a Crime: ( Uncensored image at the bottom of the post because PAIN MANAGEMENT should NEVER be CRIMINAL .) THIS is just a woman having medicine. Yet in the UK, the way I first accessed that medicine was illegal. That’s the reality of what happens when control, stigma, and money dictate healthcare instead of lived experience. Yes, before I could legally access medical cannabis, I tried marijuana illegally for my disabilities. I was honest about that — even with the police. Once I realised it genuinely helped my chronic pain and quality of life, I went legal. But apparently that honesty didn’t matter. THIS image — taken from a video where I finally had enough pain relief to dance a little and be silly for once — contributed to my advocacy work with Durham County Council being cancelled. It also impacted my employment support after trust completely broke down. People ask why I speak up about “breaking the law.” Because it never should have been against the law in...

DCC Update - employment support and podcast: I’ve just been informed that Andrew Husband has offered to personally look into my situation. I’m honestly a little shocked to finally be getting access to someone who can help — but I’m also hopeful. If this is handled properly, it could resolve everything that has happened, including: • Having the podcast reinstated • Ensuring my images are shared as originally intended (not cropped) • Regaining access to the employment support I should never have lost This should never have become a fight. It has taken so much energy and unnecessary distress. Once this is resolved, I truly hope we can move towards a more positive working relationship with the council — especially given the volunteer safeguarding and youth work I already do with them. Fingers crossed 🤞 Sarah Wingfield Independent Disability Advocate #disabilityinclusion #disabilityrights #disabilityawareness #communitymatters #strongertogether #inclusion #advocacy