For years, I apologised for existing differently, moving slowly, being misunderstood, and holding people up, even for a few seconds. No one ever asked me to say sorry; it became a habit, an instinct formed from years of feeling like I was the inconvenience. It took me a long time to understand what the social […]
'It’s Okay to Be Different': A Disability Pride Month Speech at The SeneddOn July 2, 2025, I was invited by Scope to speak at The Senedd for Disability Pride Month. This was a momentous occasion, one that I never could have imagined growing up. The gravity of being invited to speak at The Senedd is […]
It’s Okay to Be Different: Why Disability Pride Month Matters July marks Disability Pride Month, a time that often doesn’t get the recognition it deserves. For many of us who live with disabilities, it’s more than a date in the calendar. It’s a powerful reminder that it’s okay to be different, accept yourself, and be […]
Learning Disability Week isn’t just a themed social media post or a tick-box activity. It’s a moment to pause and properly listen. A time to understand that behind every learning disability label is a person, someone with thoughts, humour, quirks, opinions, frustrations, and dreams like anyone else. A learning disability doesn’t define your worth. It […]
May marks National Share a Story Month, a time to celebrate the transformative power of storytelling, especially for young people. Instead of just praising the influence of books, let's explore the profound impact of stories on our lives. They show us we matter. Growing up with cerebral palsy and a severe speech impediment, I rarely, […]
Cerebral palsy isn’t a one-size-fits-all condition. It can be frustrating, and it's a lifelong journey. You might see a wheelchair or an unsteady walk, or notice a speech difference, and that’s as far as it goes. But living with cerebral palsy (CP) is a complex experience that goes beyond a diagnosis or a visible limp.So […]
Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month - March 2025 March is #CerebralPalsyAwarenessMonth, a time to educate, advocate, inspire, and celebrate the resilience of those with cerebral palsy. As someone who lives with cerebral palsy, I know the trials and challenges, fears and tears, but I also experience the strength, determination, and incredible opportunities that arise.This year, in […]
Please stop infantilising the likes of other disabled people and me. 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 […]
The Power of Storytelling and Representation Writing, storytelling, and becoming an author have not just changed my life; they have transformed it. They have guided me on an incredible journey toward self-acceptance, a journey that has led me to a special place where I have learnt to accept myself as a disabled person. This journey, […]
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. […]
Disability History Month, Why It Matters Disability History Month is a time to reflect on the experiences, stories, struggles, and victories of disabled people throughout history. Each story, including mine, is a testament to the incredible resilience that is a hallmark of the disabled community. It's a celebration of the human spirit's ability to overcome […]
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, […]
Different Voices, Same Message: Why Embracing AAC is Key to a More Understanding Future Communication is a fundamental part of human interaction. It’s how we express our thoughts, share our experiences, and connect with others. For most people, speech is the primary means of communication, but for those with disabilities affecting their speech, alternative methods […]
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 […]
