‘I’m a wheelchair user and am currently undergoing treatment which compromises my immune system, so I fall into the “shielding” category. This means that I’m advised to strictly stay at home and not even go outside once a day. I live in an accessible flat without a garden so it has been a test of my patience!
Having said that, this “new normal” that is being talked about is not too far from my reality. The isolation people are currently experiencing is the norm of many disabled people – having opportunities, choices and momentum taken away and being forced to work from home. Lockdown is giving people a new insight into the lifestyle of a disabled person.
I hope that this this period of lockdown, will give enough insight for all of us to understand what daily life often looks like for those with disabilities, and to consider helping to remove social barriers – in churches/church activities – which often exclude them.
Could we use this different time in lockdown to listen to the powerful voice of disabled people which so many of us have drowned out with the constant busyness and activities that so many take for granted?
Many of us living with disabilities have gained a unique perspective on life. My personal experience has involved me humbling myself to be dependent on others. Some of you might relate to this at the moment, as you wait for your online food delivery, for example.
One of the things it’s important to remember is that this is not necessarily a time when we should be worrying about how to get the best out of lockdown, which is something that I have heard often – “I need a project, I need to do something, I need to work, I need to achieve”. Although routine and keeping busy has its place at this time, I think it is important to remember that your worth is not based on what you achieve, or how busy you are. This is something I have learnt during recovery from 28 surgeries, especially my hand surgeries, where my body hasn’t been able to keep up with what my mind wants to tick off.
Despite the financial hardships and other challenges at this time, people are enjoying the opportunity to slow down, enjoy nature and take a step back from the rat race – and this is more important than we might realise.
I felt called to create this video around this and whatever lockdown looks like for you, I hope you will be encouraged by it and share with others.'
Fiona Gosden is Deputy Church Inclusion Coordinator for the Christian Disability Charity, Through the Roof. Fiona supports “Roofbreakers” (disability ambassadors) in churches who ensure that disabled people are enabled to belong and contribute along with everyone else.
Visit Through The Roof to find resources to help your church adapt to the needs of its disabled members.
