Please stop infantilising the likes of other disabled people and me.

Please stop infantilising the likes of other disabled people and me.

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I am an author, songwriter and disability blogger with two published children's books, a self-published autobiography about my life experiences living with cerebral palsy, and an ebook that shares practical advice, emotional support and encouragement to guide parents of disabled children facing similar challenges my family and I have been through. My first one is a children's book about disability and acceptance called Max And The Magic Wish, an Amazon bestseller. I'm also a lyricist and have co-written songs for The Korgis (a hitmaking 80s band best known for songs like Everybody's Got To Learn Sometime and If I Had You). Phantom Of The Opera star Peter Karrie, The Royal Marine's Forces Sweetheart Kirsten Orsborn, and a Christmas song with 91,000 listens on Spotify. I have achieved all of this independently, through my own efforts. I am not a child, so please do not treat me like one.


I returned from a holiday in Spain, visiting Benidorm with a friend. After three years of restrictions and lockdowns, it was lovely to have a breakaway, and I thoroughly enjoyed our holiday. But, whilst I was out and about, exploring, partying and having a good time. I noticed something happening, which repeatedly made me very anxious and upset.


For instance, I was once at a restaurant, and the waiter asked my friend what I wanted to order, assuming I couldn't communicate my choice. This kind of behaviour is not only disrespectful but also undermines my independence and autonomy. I felt like I was being ignored, even bypassed, when interacting and conversing with other holiday-makers. I have cerebral palsy and a speech impediment. Because of this, I became increasingly aware that some people would speak to my friend about something they wanted to know about me or ask them a question on my behalf as if they thought or implied I wasn't able to or educated enough to reply. I don't know if I'm older and wiser now; that is why I am noticing this happening more and more. Now, I am progressing into my, let's say, 'limelight years'. I am becoming more confident in my skin, and I now have enough life experience that I do want to answer any difficult questions about my disabilities that people want to know.


I get curious people who want to ask questions about my disabilities. I love that people care and are interested enough to ask because this is how they learn how different disabilities affect different people. Then they understand how we live our lives and sometimes realise that you can still have an active and sociable life if your disabilities allow you to. I am still pretty mobile and functional despite having cerebral palsy. Still, I respect that other disabled people may not be able to get around as I can. Therefore, I will always try to answer every disability question. But please, can I ask people when speaking to me or want to ask me a question? Ask me directly first because I find it very infantilising and demoralising when people assume I am not educated or academically focused enough to answer questions for myself and interact directly with my friends in the first instance. Disabled people are human beings the same as everyone else, even if they look different, don't fit into past stereotypes or are not communicating in a way that you are used to. Disabled people have a soul and want to feel and be included like the rest of society.


So, in general, please stop talking to or about disabled people in the third person, or as if they are an object and make an instant assumption about that person. If you are going to ask them a question, ask them directly. Stop directing questions to the person or people with them, and don't immediately speak to their partner, friend, personal assistant or BSL interpreter. Instead, ask them the question directly in the first instance; if they don't feel confident enough to answer you, they'll ask for help.
Here's an example. Start by asking a disabled a direct question like, 'What is YOUR favourite colour?' instead of using the third person and non-inclusive language, 'What is THEIR favourite colour? Then, if they feel confident enough to answer you immediately, you will know where you can take the conversion directly. If they decide to bring in another person to help, please respect that the conversation may end up being a mixture of first person, direct dialogue with them, and third person, where the other person will help you and the disabled person to communicate efficiently. Disabled people sometimes use other ways of communicating. For example, Augmentative and Alternative Communication, sometimes with eye-gaze technology. Some AAC users may use head pointers or hands-free mouses. Others may use switches to access their devices. However, using some of these communication aids and methods is not too conventional and can be time-consuming. Still, they allow disabled people to have the ability to communicate within society. In addition, they are a form of out-let; they allow people with speech impediments or who are non-verbal to be heard.


Despite my experiences, I believe through education in our schools and on social media, we can start to educate the broader society on how to interact with all kinds of disabled people through more disability awareness programmes in our workplaces, retail, tourism and hospitality sectors. However, our government, devolved governments, and local authorities need to liaise with the disabled community on a bigger scale to achieve this. Primarily, disabled people are the ones who live through these experiences and, therefore, are the best people to advise on how we can make our society a more inclusive one.
So please, be kind when speaking with or asking a disabled person a question. Ask them directly in the first instance because you never know how knowledgeable these people could be, and they will most likely end up inspiring you for the rest of your life.


Best wishes,
Gavin

Why We Should Celebrate Our Differences: A Path to a More Inclusive World

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We live in a beautifully diverse world where no two people are alike. Differences are all around us, whether it’s in how we speak, how we look, or how we experience life. But how do we respond to these differences? Some embrace them with curiosity and kindness, while others hesitate, unsure of how to react. As we approach International Day of Disabled Persons on 3rd December 2025, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the importance of embracing differences, not just to be polite, but as a necessary step toward building a more inclusive world. For me, living with cerebral palsy has shown me the transformative power of acceptance and how much better the world is when we welcome all kinds of differences.

Personal Reflection

There have been many moments in my life when I’ve felt the weight of people’s judgments before they’ve even spoken to me. Take, for example, one of my earlier speaking engagements. As I stood at the front of the room, ready to deliver my talk, I noticed a few puzzled glances as I prepared my AAC device to help me communicate. Some of the audience members clearly weren’t sure how to react, and I could feel their uncertainty. They were used to speakers who stood up and spoke, and here I was, using technology in a way that wasn’t familiar to them.

But as I began to share my story and talk about the challenges and triumphs of living with cerebral palsy, I watched those puzzled expressions soften and change to embracing smiles and laughter. When I reached the end, people were nodding, cheekily laughing and fully engaged. What changed was their willingness to accept something different from the norm. That shift from hesitation to acceptance was powerful, not just for them but for me, too. It reinforced my belief that embracing differences opens doors to connection, learning, and growth. This was a notion of acceptance for me.

The Power of Acceptance

One of the most rewarding parts of my work as an author and motivational speaker is seeing people’s perspectives shift as they learn about disability. Whether speaking to a group of children in a classroom or a room full of professionals, the message is always the same: Embrace different and choose acceptance and understanding over judgement. We’re all different in one way or another, and those differences are what make life interesting. I’ve found that once people move past their initial uncertainties and start engaging with the person in front of them, all barriers come down, one step at a time, and meaningful conversations begin. It just takes a bit of persuasive education.

In schools, I’ve seen children’s eyes light up as they start to understand that it’s okay to be different. In professional spaces such as our workplaces and retail and hospitality venues, I’ve had people tell me they hadn’t considered how small changes like accessible meeting spaces or a bit of patience during conversations could make a massive difference for disabled people. In its simplest form, acceptance is recognising that everyone has something valuable to offer, no matter how they communicate, move, or experience the world.

A Call for Inclusivity

On International Day of Disabled Persons, there’s no better time to think about how we can all make a difference in our daily lives. Inclusion isn’t about grand gestures but our small, everyday choices to ensure everyone feels valued. Here are some practical ways to embrace differences and create a more inclusive environment:

Inclusivity starts with recognising that differences don’t separate us; they bring us together. By embracing these differences, we create communities where everyone has the chance to contribute, grow, and thrive.

Take a moment to think about how you can embrace differences in your own life. What can you do today to make someone feel more included? Sometimes, it’s as simple as waving or smiling at someone who looks unsure or asking how you can make a space more accessible for everyone. Inclusion is not just about being kind; it’s about actively choosing to see the value in everyone, regardless of their background or abilities.

I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you ever been in a situation where embracing differences positively impacted you? Or have you felt misunderstood because of something that set you apart? Share your experiences in the comments below. Your story might inspire someone else to take a step towards inclusivity.

If you found this post helpful, please share it with others. Let’s spread the message that differences are to be embraced, not avoided. You can also join the conversation on social media using #EmbraceDifferences and #IDPWD2025. Let’s work together to create a world where everyone is valued.

Welcome to The Disabled Writer’s Blog: One Journey, One Mission!


My name is Gavin Clifton, and I’m excited to have you join me here! I created this blog as a personal journey, a safe place for not only people within the disabled community but for everyone who wishes to join me on my mission of sharing my experiences of living with cerebral palsy, overcoming challenges, and spreading the message of hope, especially to parents of disabled children.


Who Am I?
I was born with a neurological condition called cerebral palsy (CP), which affects my movement, muscle tone, motor skills, and speech. Growing up, I faced many physical and emotional obstacles, but I’ve always believed that my disability does not define me and that it is simply a part of my story. I’ve worked to achieve my dreams, even when society or my body seemed determined to stand in my way. Still, hopefully, I can use this crazy journey of disability and self-acceptance to educate and empower a realisation of a more accessible, inclusive, outward-looking and emphatic world, one small step at a time.
From a young age, I was taught that life would be challenging, but I also learned that resilience and determination could help me navigate those challenges. My journey hasn’t always been easy, but it has been one of self-discovery, learning, to continual self-acceptance and growth. Today, I’m proud to say I’m an author, disability awareness empowerment advocate, and motivational speaker. My key message, which I’ll share in this blog, is, "It's okay to embrace differences; choose acceptance and understanding over judgment."


Why I Started This Blog
I wanted to create this blog as a space where I can openly share my experiences living with cerebral palsy and the lessons I’ve learned along the way, laying everything bare and open for everyone to read, see, and experience. When I was younger, there weren’t many resources available for people like me, personal stories about what it’s like to live with a disability, to fight for inclusion, or to balance the highs and lows of life with a neurological condition. So, I decided to create that resource myself, alongside many other disability advocates who are fighting for equity in this modern era.
I know that many people out there feel misunderstood, judged, or even invisible because of their disabilities. Whether you have a disability yourself, know someone who does, or want to learn more, I hope this blog will enlighten you and inspire you to see the world from a different perspective. I want to encourage others to embrace their own differences and understand that there is strength in diversity.

My Mission
Throughout my life, I’ve made it my mission to educate and raise awareness about disabilities, particularly cerebral palsy, and to advocate for inclusion and accessibility in all areas of life. From public speaking engagements to writing, my goal is to help people better understand what it means to live with a disability, not just the struggles but also the triumphs and joys. I want to inspire and empower through using an unfiltered narrative through the power of words. All with a bit of cheeky humour sprinkled on top. I am slightly bonkers, after all.
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that disability doesn’t limit potential. Yes, it brings challenges, but it also brings unique strengths, perspectives, and opportunities for growth. In this blog, I’ll discuss everything from navigating daily life with cerebral palsy to breaking barriers in education and the workplace to promoting accessibility and understanding in our communities.

What to Expect from This Blog
This blog will be a safe space for reflection, education, and storytelling. I’ll be sharing personal stories about my journey, the challenging moments, tears, fears and victories, as well as practical advice for those with disabilities, their parents and families, and anyone interested in building a more inclusive world.

You’ll find posts on:

Let’s Embrace Differences Together
I’m so excited to continue this journey with you! Whether you’re here to learn, share, or simply be inspired, I hope you’ll find something in my story that resonates with you. My message to you is simple: It’s okay to be different. Embrace who you are and encourage others to do the same. Let’s build a world where everyone feels seen, accepted, and valued, regardless of their abilities.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Stay tuned for more posts where I’ll dive deeper into my personal story, share disability advocacy tips, and much more. Together, we can create a more inclusive and understanding world.


If you’re interested in following my journey, please subscribe to my blog for updates on new posts. I’d love to hear from you; feel free to share your thoughts in the comments
below or contact me directly. Let’s start a conversation about how we can all embrace differences and make the world more inclusive.

How Cold Weather Can Impact Muscles for Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

Living with cerebral palsy (CP) can present various challenges, and one aspect that often goes unnoticed is how cold weather affects individuals with this condition. Cerebral palsy affects muscle control and movement, and when combined with frigid temperatures, it can further impact the well-being of those with CP. Let's explore how cold weather can affect the muscles of individuals with cerebral palsy and discuss strategies to mitigate these challenges.

1. Increased muscle stiffness:

Cold weather can cause muscles to become stiffer and more rigid, which can be particularly challenging for individuals with cerebral palsy. People with CP already experience muscle tightness due to the condition, and the cold weather exacerbates these symptoms. The drop in temperature can lead to increased muscle stiffness, making movement more difficult and uncomfortable.

2. Decreased flexibility:

Flexibility is crucial for individuals with cerebral palsy to maintain their range of motion and perform daily activities. However, cold weather can reduce flexibility, making it harder to move and perform tasks that may already be challenging due to the effects of CP. This decreased flexibility can further limit mobility and independence.

3. Increased muscle pain:

Cold weather can also contribute to an increase in muscle pain for individuals with cerebral palsy. The combination of low temperatures and muscle stiffness can lead to discomfort and soreness. The pain experienced due to these weather-related effects can make it harder to engage in physical activities, leading to decreased mobility and potential limitations in overall well-being.

4. Challenges with coordination and balance:

Cerebral palsy often affects coordination and balance; cold weather can intensify these challenges. Reduced muscle flexibility and increased stiffness can impact balance and coordination, making it more difficult for individuals with CP to maintain stability and move confidently. This can increase the risk of falls and injuries, especially on icy or slippery surfaces.

I have experienced ALL of the above, more so now I am getting older, with muscles becoming stiffer and rigid, especially on my right side, where I am affected by cerebral palsy the most. I also begin experiencing increased muscle pain in my hamstrings and leg muscles. This then affects my coordination and balance, leading to a drop in confidence to do things or go places alone, in turn leading to my anxiety soaring and questioning my self-worth. Also, in colder weather, I have fallen over numerous times, especially slipping on icy surfaces, leading to quite a few injuries, including broken bones.

Please be aware that from a personal, friendship and professional perspective, cold weather can affect or hinder how people with cerebral palsy can carry out everyday tasks that most people take for granted due to muscles tightening up and energy levels dropping. For example, if you have a work or business meeting scheduled with someone with cerebral palsy on a cold day, they may need to rearrange the meeting or move it to an online one because it's too icy for them to travel and get to the meeting's venue. Extra time may be needed for the person to participate in the meeting because of stiff muscles, meaning they are using up more energy managing their uncontrollable movements, meaning everything can take longer than expected. Becoming more aware, empathetic and knowledgeable about how stiffness and tight muscles can affect people with cerebral palsy and the impact it has on their professional daily routines and putting in practice on spreading awareness within the business world on how and why people with cerebral palsy may need to change patterns or rearrange scheduled meetings will only make you, as a business or company become more accessible, diverse and inclusive.

Disabled people and people with cerebral palsy, like everyone else, also have the right to a social life if they choose to have one. There is nothing wrong with a disabled person going on a well-deserved shopping trip, a meal, a friendly drink with friends, or even a holiday with a carer, or as people prefer to call them today, a personal assistant. However, please remember that in colder weather, people with physical disabilities have the added encumbrance of the possibility of having to pre-plan, rearrange or even cancel arranged days or nights out due to the weather conditions and the roads and pathways becoming too icy and dangerous to navigate, risking falling over and having the horrible decision-making process to go through of whether or not to risk getting seriously injured or asking people if they are happy to rearrange or even cancel, this all leads to disappointment and anxiety. Again, this is where understanding and empathy all help support and make disabled people feel more included in the short and long term.

Mitigating the Impacts:

1. Dressing appropriately:

Wearing warm clothing, including layers, can help to retain body heat and minimise the impact of cold weather on muscles. Additionally, using thermal accessories such as gloves, hats, and scarves can help to protect extremities and maintain warmth.

2. Regular stretching and exercise:

Regular stretching exercises can help maintain muscle flexibility and counteract the effects of cold weather. Physical therapy and targeted exercises prescribed by healthcare professionals can be especially beneficial for individuals with cerebral palsy, helping to reduce muscle stiffness and promote mobility.

3. Warm-up routines:

Before heading outdoors, taking the time to warm up muscles through gentle exercises or applying heat therapy techniques like warm towels or heating pads can help to loosen tight muscles and improve circulation. This can make movement more manageable and more comfortable in cold weather.

4. Maintaining indoor comfort:

Creating a warm and comfortable indoor environment can be crucial for individuals with cerebral palsy during colder months. Keeping living spaces adequately heated can help prevent muscles from becoming too stiff, promoting mobility and overall well-being.

To conclude, cold weather can pose unique challenges for individuals with cerebral palsy, affecting muscle stiffness, flexibility, coordination, and balance. However, with appropriate strategies and precautions, these challenges can be mitigated. By dressing appropriately, engaging in regular stretching and exercise, incorporating warm-up routines, and maintaining a comfortable indoor environment, individuals with cerebral palsy can minimise the impact of cold weather on their muscles and continue to thrive despite the challenges presented by their condition.

I discuss in more detail how I stay as mobile as possible, including how fatigue can also affect people with cerebral palsy and how I try to battle to mitigate all of this in #CerebralPalsyAndMe, my autobiography about living with cerebral palsy. You can order a copy on my website.

Best wishes,

Gavin

www.gavincliftonwriter.com