Talking Sense blog

People like you, writing about their experiences of complex disabilities, deafblindness and all things Sense.

• I was bursting with pride when I saw my son win silver at the Special Olympics

  

  Shirley tells us all about the joy of watching her son Dan, 27, win silver for ten pin bowling at the Special Olympics World Games 2023.

• Accessible surfing has been lifechanging

  

  Since Ollie started surfing, he's been so much more confident in himself. It’s the first thing he’s really enjoyed that’s completely his, that doesn’t involve me.

• How the Seeing AI app supports visually impaired people to access the world around them

  

  In our latest Sense tech review, Christopher tells us all about Seeing AI: an app that uses artificial intelligence to support visually impaired people with everyday tasks.

• How to write a Sense Awards nomination that stands out

  

  This November, the Sense Awards are back. Here’s our chief executive (and long-time Sense Awards judge) Richard with some tips on how to make your nomination go all the way.

• A day in the life of a parent carer for a child with complex disabilities

  

  Lowri is a full-time carer to Mia, three, who has Rett syndrome. She tells us exactly what this is like – and why it’s so important that carers like her get access to respite. 

• What Disability Pride Month means to me

  

  July is Disability Pride Month. This year, it’s prompted me to think about what “disability pride” means to me.

• Six top tips for seeking respite care from your local authority

  

  Ruth Bennett-Anderson has worked for Sense in Birmingham for 13 years. Here, she shares some of her best advice on how to get respite care.

• Families like ours could benefit so much from respite in the school holidays

  

  Catherine tells us about her life as a parent carer, and why respite care for parent carers and siblings is so vital. 

• All Disabled people deserve the access and support to realise their musical ambitions

  

  Sense's new Artistic Director of Music, Kris Halpin, explains how music has transformed his life, and why he’s passionate about bringing the same experiences to others. 

• Chapman’s Buddy opened the door to friendship, confidence and even musical collaboration

  

  Chapman’s dad Chun tells us about how learning to play the piano and signing up to Sense’s Virtual Buddying has opened up Chapman’s world.