Gardening Activities for Adults with Disabilities
Gardening has several benefits for our physical and mental well-being. Spending time outdoors and tending to plants is known to reduce stress and promote a sense of accomplishment and higher self-esteem, as well as boosting psychological well-being. For many, spending time in the garden can ease feelings of anxiety.
Due to these benefits, gardening is a brilliant accessible activity for people with disabilities, supporting mental and physical health.
The Top Gardening Activities For Adults With Disabilities
Adults with disabilities can be involved in a wide range of gardening activities – there is really no limit to what you can do with sensory and accessible gardens! We have listed some of the top activities to experience in the garden below.
Watering the Garden
The garden will need to be watered regularly for the plants to receive the nutrients they need. Anyone can do this activity by using a garden hose or a flat-sided watering can to water the plant beds and plants within the garden.
Digging and Planting
Digging and planting are essential for the garden as it breaks up the soil allowing plants and flowers to grow. For this activity, you can place plants and flowers anywhere you want in the garden and have a choice on what types of plants and flowers you’d like to see grow.
Various garden tools are available for people with disabilities, such as extendable garden tools for hard-to-reach areas or more expansive garden beds. Thicker handles for rakes, spades and shovels make the tools easier to use for those that have a weaker grip. Garden seats that are adjustable in height and have a 360-degree swivel seat attached can also be useful for making gardening activities more accessible.
Flower Picking and Arranging
You can also get creative by picking the flowers you’ve patiently watched grow and arranging them into beautiful bouquets and display features. All your hard gardening work will certainly be paid off when you get the chance to create beautiful flower arrangements to give as gifts or proudly display within your home!
How to Make Your Garden Accessible For People with Disabilities
There are several ways to make gardens more accessible to ensure everyone can enjoy spending time in the fresh air and developing a bit of a green thumb.
- Raised flower beds – Specifically tailored height and width to meet the user’s needs.
- Hanging baskets – Some hanging baskets have a pulley system to be raised and lowered from a wheelchair.
- Reachable borders.
- Accessible arbours.
- Smooth non-slip paths for wheelchair users and gardeners with visual impairments.
- Sensory areas.
- Short and gentle ramps for access to different level areas of the garden.
- Access to comfortable seating, such as a bench.
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants to Include in Your Garden
Adding sensory-friendly plants to any garden is the perfect way to stimulate all the senses. Combining natural features, textures, smells, sounds and delicious treats creates an unforgettable sensory experience for adults to support different needs and sensory preferences.
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants for Sound
- Bamboo
- Various grass plants
- Leaves
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants For Bright Visual Colours
- Sunflowers
- Daffodils
- Marigolds
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants For Smell
- Lavender
- Mint
- Roses
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants For Touch
- Succulents
- Aloe Vera
- Snapdragons
The Top Sensory-Friendly Plants For Taste
- Carrots
- Strawberries
- Peas
The Calvert Exmoor Courtyard Garden
Here at Calvert Exmoor, we have our very own courtyard garden full of different plants, smells, bright colours and textures. The garden is situated in the middle of our accommodation buildings and provides a sanctuary for all of our guests to enjoy.
Our garden beds are low and raised, allowing guests to walk between or sit on the benches taking in the garden’s surroundings. We could offer gentle supervised gardening if any of our guests would like to try a spot of gardening!
We make it our mission to provide accessible facilities and activities for everyone to enjoy. If you’re ready to embark on an accessible holiday in Devon, why not plan a trip with us? You’ll be able to experience a range of incredible activities, including abseiling, canoeing, cycling and many more!
Can Animals Help with Mental Health?
Managing your mental health alone can be challenging – having companionship whether that is a friend, family member, or a pet can help provide invaluable support. Spending time with pets and other animals encourages us to live mentally healthier lives, as they comfort and motivate us.
At Calvert Exmoor, we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact of interacting with animals, with many of our guests enjoying our accessible horse riding and stable activities, which offer a range of mental and physical benefits.
How Can a Pet Help with Mental Health?
Having a pet or being in regular contact with an animal and taking care of them can improve your mental health in a number of ways.
Add a Sense of Routine to Your Day
Taking care of a pet can help you keep a daily routine and creates structure in your day. Feeding, and exercising your pet can not only make you feel focussed and grounded but it also adds purpose to your day and a sense of achievement which is great for those days that are really hard.
Support Daily Exercise
Doing physical activity such as walking a dog or riding a horse can help your mind to reset and is just plain fun! Put your favourite playlist or podcast on and enjoy the fresh air with your furry friend.
Here at Calvert Exmoor we’re big believers in the ability of adventure breaks to support your mental health. Getting outside, staying active and befriending a horse are just some of the advantages of a stay with us.
Boost Social Skills
Having a pet or participating in animal-based activities can be a great way to meet new people and build your social skills. From dog walkers stopping to chat to each other, training classes and pet shops to groups for interacting with therapy animals and animal-interest clubs, there are many ways to connect and chat to new, like-minded people.
Improve Confidence
Animals can also improve your self confidence – they can be brilliant listeners which can be really helpful especially if you are feeling misunderstood or aren’t sure if you’ll be accepted by others.
The company of animals can help to reduce anxiety as they can provide comfort and are easy to spend time with.
Is Getting a Pet the Right Choice?
Although pets can really help and improve mental health, they are a very big and serious commitment. You will need to make sure you have the time, energy, money and a good environment for them to live in, before thinking about taking care of a furry friend.
Things to consider before getting a pet:
- How often are you at home?
- How much time do you have to spend with your pet?
- Do you have enough money to care for them? Eg food, vet bills, toys etc.
- How much outdoor space do you have?
- Are you capable of looking after a pet at all times?
Fostering a pet is also an option as is looking after a friend’s when they are on holiday – this can help you leaner if having your own furry friend is the right thing for you.
Spending Times With Animals if Your Don’t Have a Pet
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, interacting with pets and animals is a great way to improve how you feel. Even if owning a pet isn’t an option for you due to where you live or not being able to care for them daily, there are plenty of other ways to see the mental health benefits of spending time with animals.
Here at Calvert Exmoor we provide holidays for people with disabilities, offering plenty of activities including accessible horse riding and carriage experiences. Our horses are much-loved members of the team, making your stay with us one to remember!
What is a Sensory Room?
A sensory room is a specially designed room that helps to develop an individual’s sense, through lights, objects of different textures and music. This kind of space is often useful for children and adults with sensory sensitivities, like some people with autism may experience. Sensory rooms can also help support the development of auditory, visual, tactical processing and fine and gross motor skills.
The Benefits of a Sensory Room
Sensory rooms are often primarily used by children, supporting them as they grow and develop. However, they can also help adults with autism by stimulating different senses.
These rooms can serve as an escape from the stressors of the outside world. For example, if someone has difficulty when overstimulated by noise they can go into a sensory room and use the objects in there to help calm their senses and become less agitated.
After spending time in a sensory room, children often have improved creativity and expression, increased concentration and focus, lowered aggression and show increases in gross and fine motor skills.
Along with the sensory benefits, spending time in a sensory room can encourage problem solving and build nerve connections in the brain, which allows children to retain more information.
Ideas for a Sensory Room
The main goal of a sensory room is to be a safe space where individuals can go when they need to calm or stimulate their senses. There are various things that you can include in a sensory room.
Our accessible accommodation and facilities here at Calvert Exmoor includes access to a sensory room where guests can go to have a multi sensory experience. Our sensory room includes:
- Bubble tube
- Moving coloured lights
- Projector and mirror ball
- Flexible fibre optic lights
- Padding
- Bean bag chairs
If you’re making your own sensory room, think about who will be using it and what their needs are. Here are some common things to include in a sensory room to help support people with autism or sensory needs.
1. Sensory Lighting
Slow colour changing lights are great for sensory rooms; not only can they provide relief from stress or being overwhelmed, but also entertainment. Different colours, forms of light and shapes from shadows can be engaging and mesmerising.
Lighting also plays a vital role in early childhood development, which is why it can be so important to include in a sensory room designed specifically for children. There are many different kinds of light-based toys and devices to suit different needs and preferences.
2. Sensory Seating
Sensory seating allows children to move about in a more appropriate way without teaching them bad habits such as rocking in a chair. It will allow them to safely move about in their seat, helping to calm their senses.
Bean bags, wiggle seats and wobble cushions are also great for encouraging different kinds of movement.
3. Balance Tools
Balance tools and toys help to encourage balance and stability as a person engages certain muscles, creating a better sense of bodily awareness.
From balance beams to stepping stones there is a huge range of balance tools to choose from.
4. Tunnels
These are great for younger children as they can help to encourage crawling, be used as part of an obstacle course or even as a visual enclosure when needed.
Many children may enjoy laying in a tunnel on their bellies while doing other activities as it can improve their focus. Tunnels can also become cosy dens with a pillow and blanket, allowing children to decompress after a long day.
Setting up a decompression space or quiet corner in a sensory room is really important especially for those who struggle with sensory processing disorders.
5. Balls
Ball play can help children develop a range of skills, including:
- Hand eye coordination
- Grasping skills
- Spatial awareness
- Gross and fine motor skills
- Balance
- Social skills
From sensory balls to yoga balls, these are brilliant for stimulating the sense of touch.
In various sensory rooms you will likely find ball pits; these are great as when children crash into them it provides deep-pressure sensations and proprioceptive feedback, meeting the sensory needs of those who enjoy the feeling of pressure or weightlessness.
Here at Calvert Trust Exmoor we make it our mission to provide accessible facilities and activities for everyone to enjoy. If you’re ready to embark on an accessible holiday in Devon, why not plan a trip with us? You’ll be able to experience a range of incredible activities, including abseiling, canoeing, cycling and many more!
Understanding Autism
As disability and inclusivity awareness becomes more widespread, more and more people are starting to understand autism and the ways people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may behave differently from neurotypical individuals. However, there are still many misconceptions associated with the disorder.
The National Autistic Society estimates that there are around 700,000 people in the UK who are on the autism spectrum. Like any other group, people with ASD are not a monolith, so understanding autism comes with understanding that everyone is unique.
As a provider of accessible holidays in Devon, we’ve welcomed many guests with autism – we know how important it is that we all do our best to be understanding of others and support people that society has historically neglected.
What is Autism?
Autism, or ASD, refers to a range of conditions that affect people differently. Autistic individuals may interpret the world differently than a neurotypical person, resulting in them finding it difficult to communicate, experiencing sensory overload or exhibiting restrictive behaviours, among other characteristics.
How these behaviours impact a person’s daily life will depend on the individual. There is no one way to be autistic.
Some people may have other conditions as well as ASD, including anxiety, depression and ADHD.
What are the Signs of Autism?
Autism is considered an invisible disability – you cannot tell by looking at someone if they are autistic or not. Because autism is a spectrum, diagnosis can also be challenging sometimes, with some people going through life without ever receiving a formal diagnosis.
Some people may exhibit all the typical symptoms of autism, while others may experience one or two.
Communication & Social Interaction
Some people with autism can find it difficult to understand others’ verbal communication and non-verbal gestures. They may struggle to interpret sarcasm or figures of speech and have limited or no speech themselves. Children with autism especially may repeat what others have said to them again and again – this is known as echolalia.
Some can also find it difficult to understand how people are feeling, making it harder to form connections. Because they do not always understand unwritten social rules neotropical people have more easily learnt, people with autism can sometimes be perceived as rude or ‘strange’.
Sensory Sensitivities
Another common characteristic various autistic people may share is over or under-sensitivity to different stimuli. Certain sounds, smells, tastes, tactile experiences and light can be uncomfortable, causing stress, anxiety or even physical pain.
Stimuli that are too intense may cause some people to avoid everyday situations like shopping in a busy supermarket or travelling on the bus. Being exposed to too many stimuli may cause sensory overload or a meltdown.
Dedicated spaces like sensory rooms are designed to help soothe anxiety prompted by sensory overload and encourage more controlled sensory experiences.
Special Interests
Many people on the autism spectrum show special interest in a particular topic or hobby, becoming experts in their interest and putting a lot of time and focus into it. Special interests can change throughout a person’s life, while others may pursue theirs as part of their career.
For some people, special interests can stray into becoming obsessions, causing them to neglect other parts of their lives to remain highly focused on their interests.
Repetitive Behaviours
Routines and repetitive behaviours can help provide some structure and predictability to help navigate what can often be a confusing world. Some people may exhibit repetitive movements like rocking or hand flapping to help calm down when anxious or simply because they find the repetitive sensation enjoyable.
Meltdowns
When an autistic person becomes too overwhelmed, they may experience a meltdown or shutdown. The former often presents as a loss of control, with some lashing out or shouting. A shutdown can also stem from feelings of being overwhelmed but may seem more passive from the outside, with the person becoming closed off.
Both can be frustrating and exhausting for the person experiencing them.
Wrongful Assumptions About Autism
Like other conditions that lie outside of the ‘norm’, autism has been subject to a number of falsehoods and untrue perceptions over the years. It is important that we continue to break down the stigma surrounding ASD and the associated behaviours to make wider society more inclusive for everyone.
Autism is not an illness, and there is no ‘cure’ – people born with autism are autistic for life. Just because someone is autistic, it does not mean they cannot do certain things. While some may need various kinds of support at times, being autistic does not stop you from leading a well-rounded life.
It is not known what causes autism or even if there is a ‘cause’. Autism is not caused by vaccines.
How to Support People With Autism
Support can come in many forms, whether you further educate yourself to better understand the people with ASD in your life or champion autistic voices. If you’re not sure whether your help is needed or wanted, simply ask the people it concerns.
Activities to Support People with Autism
Receptive toys and sensory activities can be valuable for both children and adults with autism. This might include smaller-scale activities like painting or cooking or involve more energetic things like accessible outdoor adventure activities.
At Calvert Exmoor, we’ve seen firsthand how spending time outdoors can benefit people with autism, especially when combined with a range of activities that are designed to intrigue the senses. Things like archery, bushcraft, climbing and zip lining are all wonderfully tactile, sensory experiences.
Autism-Friendly Holidays
Everyone deserves the chance to take a break and enjoy new experiences. However, going on holiday and changing the routine can be difficult for some people. Dedicated autism-friendly holidays are designed to support people with autism and meet their needs, ensuring they can have a relaxing and enjoyable time away.
Our autism-friendly holidays in Devon revolve around a host of adventure activities based at our autism-friendly site and accessible facilities. We always keep inclusivity and accessibility in mind to ensure that everyone can enjoy the thrills of an activity break.
To find out more about how we make our holidays accessible to all or to organise a trip, please get in touch.
What to Look for in Accessible Holiday Accommodation
Where you choose to stay while on holiday depends on a number of factors, with location, proximity to attractions, general amenities and budget being top considerations. But, for many people with disabilities, the right holiday accommodation can hinge on accessibility.
When seeking accessible accommodation, there are several things to look out for to ensure you book somewhere that will cater to your needs and offer everything else you want from a holiday away.
As a provider of holidays for people with disabilities in Devon, we understand how important it is that all guests feel welcome and cared for. Here are some of our top tips for finding genuinely accessible holiday accommodation, no matter what kind of adventure you want to embark on.
Accessible Entryways
First things first, how easy is it to get into your holiday cottage or room via the initial doorways and entrances? Check that all entrances and exits are easily manoeuvrable with ramps and handrails.
Lift access is another thing to look out for.
Doors
Doors should allow for easy operation for all guests, not being too heavy or using handles that are hard to grip. Also see if the accommodation is equipped with automatic doors.
Hallways & Passages Between Rooms
The width of hallways, doors and passages will also affect how easy it is to move around and navigate the space. Look out for accommodation that has clear, open passageways that are free of too much obstructive furniture.
Stair lifts and handrails along stairs are another good feature to look out for to see if accommodation providers are thinking about levels of accessibility.
Clutter-Free Spaces
Whether you’re booking an accessible room or renting a holiday cottage, clutter-free spaces should be a given. When looking at pictures of the accommodation, consider the layout of furniture and other items – is there anything that may restrict your mobility or pose a risk to you?
The ability to ask to move furniture upon request is another good marker to check for.
Lighting
Is there enough suitable lighting installed around the space, and is it easily adjustable? Look out for good outdoor lighting too, checking that accessing doors or making the journey to and from the car is possible and safe, especially in the dark.
Appliances
Accessible accommodation should always ensure that any appliances are easy to reach and easy to operate. Consider whether there are any handrails or supports on the side of countertops.
Accessible Beds
Is the height of the bed suitable and will there be enough support for you when getting in and out? Check if there are any rooms that offer electric beds or hoists that would make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Accessible Bathrooms & Wet Rooms
Rooms with en-suite bathrooms can be especially useful. Query whether your potential accommodation offers bathrooms with no-slip mats, handrails, showers seats or walk-in showers.
Offering a wet room rather than a bath can also indicate how much a provider is thinking about accessibility.
Accessible Car Parks or Drop Off Points
Another basic essential includes accessible car parks or drop-off points that are within close proximity to main entrances. Also consider whether outdoor paths and routes are even and easy for you to traverse.
Clear Safety Procedures for Guests With Disabilities
Sufficiently planned safety procedures are the bare minimum for a place you are putting your trust in. However, some accommodation might not be clear about the specific emergency measures in place for guests with disabilities.
Before booking, check any information on the provider’s website or get in touch with their staff about the current safety procedures and whether your needs in the event of an emergency have been considered.
Accessible Holiday Amenities
A relaxing dip in the hot tub or pool is just one of the delights you’re able to enjoy on a trip away. So you want to make sure accommodation that offers this luxury is able to offer it to everyone. Check whether they have hoists or systems in place to assist with accessible swimming or bathing.
Accessibility Statement
An accessibility statement will detail a site’s features and facilities to help you determine whether it meets your needs. We always recommend you review this document when booking a stay to see if everything the accommodation says it offers is in line with your expectations and requirements.
The statement will give you a good overview of the site’s accessibility in its entirety, highlighting everything we’ve covered above and more.
Accommodation at Calvert Exmoor
Here at Calvert Exmoor, we are dedicated to ensuring everyone that stays with us has a comfortable, enjoyable and stress-free stay. Our accessible accommodation caters to a range of abilities, with adaptive equipment to help provide the right support.
You can find out more about our different rooms and accommodation options with our Calvert Exmoor accommodation guide.
If you have any questions about staying with us or would like to talk about booking an accessible adventure holiday, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with the Calvert Exmoor team.
What Does Sponsoring an Animal Mean? How to Sponsor a Horse
Even if you can only contribute a small sum of money, charitable donations can make a big difference in the lives of the people (and animals) who need it most. Giving donations to your local organisations is a great way to connect with a community and show your support to some worthy causes.
Sponsoring an animal is a common way to get involved in charity work because it’s simple, often involves convenient small monthly or annual payments and offers the bonus of giving you a close connection with a cute animal!
As a provider of holidays for people with disabilities, we are proud to offer accessible horse and carriage riding activities with a dedicated team of horses and ponies. Our lovely ponies are central figures at the Calvert Exmoor centre, so we understand how important it is that more people embrace animal sponsorship and contribute when possible.
Why Sponsor an Animal?
Sponsoring animals can help them and the people who take care of them in a number of ways.
You might choose to sponsor endangered animals around the globe so that your money can go to vital conservation work and the protection of their habitats. Many people sponsor wild animals like elephants, polar bears, giant pandas and more because they appreciate that these creatures are under threat and want to do what they can to help ensure their futures.
Or, you might choose to sponsor animals a little closer to home.
Animal-assisted therapy can be beneficial for many different people, with animals like dogs and horses especially helping individuals improve their mood, mental health and communication skills. Sponsoring animals that help with these services means they can keep supporting the people who benefit from spending time with them.
If you have the means to do so, sponsoring your favourite animal or one you have a special connection to can be a feasible way for the average person to make an impact.
Donations Vs Sponsorship
Sponsorship is slightly different from a general donation as the money your pledge tends to go directly to a particular animal – you sponsor their care and upkeep. When you sponsor an animal, you may also receive updates and pictures, showing you how they’re progressing and how your contributions are being used. This is less likely with a general donation to the wider organisation.
Some organisations, particularly those involved in conservation efforts, may also refer to sponsorships and direct donations as ‘adopting’ the animal. You can even ‘adopt’ endangered plants that need our help, such as sequoias and coral reefs!
Sponsoring a Pony at Calvert Exmoor
The Calvert Exmoor horses and ponies are taken care of by our trained staff and diligent volunteers – the vital work they all do would not be possible without the generous donations and support from our patrons and community.
Accessible horse riding and spending time with these gentle giants can be wonderfully beneficial for people with disabilities, helping build confidence, providing new sensory experiences and soothing negative feelings. We’ve seen first-hand how interacting with animals, especially horses, can positively impact a person’s outlook.
By sponsoring one (or more) of our animals, you help ensure we can continue providing accessible horse riding activities to all our guests and local riding enthusiasts.
You can sponsor any of the 12 animals at Calvert Exmoor; when you do so, you’ll receive a certificate commemorating the sponsorship, a horse keyring or fridge magnet with a photo of your sponsee and an opportunity to visit them on an open day.
For £30 a year, you can sponsor your favourite horse and help us continue taking the best possible care of them and ensure they can keep helping take care of others.
Please see our sponsorship page to find out more about who your money could be supporting, or to make a sponsorship pledge.
We believe that everyone should be able to experience and enjoy riding activities so are incredibly grateful for the continued support that helps make this happen!
The Importance of Rest for Caregivers
Whether rest takes the form of relinquishing your responsibilities for a couple of hours, having a relaxing day to yourself or enjoying a several-week-long holiday, it is vital for both caregivers and the people they look after.
Recognising the importance of rest can help carers avoid burnout, reap the benefits of a change of scenery and ensure their own mental and physical health is taken care of.
At Calvert Exmoor, we are committed to providing exciting, accessible holidays for people with disabilities and their carers. We understand how vital it is that caregivers have the opportunity to spend time with the people they care for outside of the caring role, trying new things together.
Finding the Time to Rest
Being a caregiver is a rewarding role, but it is often one that can be demanding. Finding time for yourself as a carer can sometimes seem a low priority in face of other challenges.
A sense of personal well-being for caregivers improves the relationship with those they care for through the reduction of stress. Sometimes, those who require care can feel like a burden to their carers, and caregivers can feel overwhelmed by the responsibility within the routine of looking after someone else.
A Chance to Care For Your Own Needs
When you have someone else’s needs at the forefront of your mind, it can be easy to let your own well-being fall to the wayside. But, you cannot care for someone else as effectively if you don’t first attend to your own mental, physical and social needs.
Fun activities alongside the individual you look after, whether it’s for several hours or a longer accessible holiday, means you can enjoy the thrill for yourself, helping to remove some of life’s pressure.
With built-in time for something different, you ensure you do have the time to care for yourself, recharge and experience the same things your care users are.
New Opportunities Together
For some, looking after themselves, as well as someone else can feel like a never-ending task, often leaving caregivers feeling socially isolated and withdrawn. A change of scenery and the chance to try new things can help ease the sense that, as a caregiver, you are trapped in a bubble or restricted by your normal routine.
When visiting a dedicated activity centre like Calvert Exmoor, both you and the person you care for can more easily get out there and dare to do something different! By offering a range of accessible and inclusive activities, there is a way for everyone to get involved.
Adventure Activities for Everyone
We believe that nobody should be left out. Whether it’s abseiling, climbing, or horse and carriage riding, we understand the value of offering unforgettable experiences that are accessible to people of all abilities.
Our holidays are designed for everyone and provide a great opportunity to find recuperation through adventure while still spending time with those you care for. We understand that needing rest is not always about getting away from the person you look after, but it can sometimes be undertaking new and exciting experiences to bring you closer together.
If you or someone you know is a caregiver that is looking to try something new with the people they look after, please do not hesitate to get in touch to find out more about our accessible breaks.
What is an Invisible Disability? Understanding Hidden Disabilities
Thanks to the vital work of disability organisations and charities, disability awareness has become more widespread over recent years, but there are still many ways society can be more inclusive and aim to dismantle the stigma attached to various disabilities.
As a centre for accessible holidays in Devon, we welcome guests of all abilities and backgrounds, catering to everyone’s needs. We’ve seen first-hand how disability can affect people in different ways and how valuable an accessible place that embraces everyone can be.
Non-visible disabilities can often get lost in the conversation surrounding disability. We take a look at what is meant by this term and how you can better support people with non-visible disabilities.
What is a Hidden Disability?
An invisible disability is a physical, mental or neurological condition or impairment that is not immediately obvious to an outside perspective and may go unnoticed by others. Invisible disabilities can make performing daily activities difficult, with these challenges exacerbated by a wider population that misunderstands the nature of unseen disabilities.
Different individuals may identify with varying terms, depending on which best reflects their experience. Along with ‘invisible disability’, you may see the following terms being used:
- Non-visible disability
- Unseen disability
- Hidden disability
- Less-visible disability
- Non-apparent disability
The perceived visibility of an impairment may change over time; sometimes, an individual may feel that their disability is ‘visible’ or it may be less visible, also changing depending on who is perceiving the disability. The term ‘dynamic disability’ can be used to reflect this to some degree, as some individuals may use something like a mobility aid at certain times but not others.
It is important to remember that just because you personally cannot see that someone has a disability, it does not mean it does not exist.
What is Considered an Invisible Disability?
Non-visible disabilities can encompass a range of things – there is no one way to experience non-apparent disabilities. Examples of an invisible disability might include, but are by no means limited to:
- Chronic pain or fatigue
- Other chronic conditions like diabetes
- Mental health conditions like depression, schizophrenia, PTSD and anxiety
- Autism
- Blindness or visual impairments
- Deafness or hearing impairments
- Cognitive impairments like traumatic brain injuries and learning disabilities
- Various other diverse conditions
A person may have multiple disabilities, with some being visible and some being non-visible.
Supporting People with Non-Visible Disabilities
As with any disability, the kind of support an individual with non-visible disabilities needs will vary. You should always listen to the individual rather than assuming everyone expects, requires and appreciates the same kind of support. Never make assumptions about what a person with disabilities, visible or non-visible, can or cannot do.
Some people may choose to keep their disability private, while others may wear a badge or symbol that makes others aware they have a non-visible disability. The sunflower lanyard from the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Scheme is one example of how people use an outward sign to signify their disability.
Remember, even if someone is not wearing a sign like this, it does not mean they are lying about their disability – it is not their responsibility to prove to you that they have a disability, nor is it in your purview to ask.
Ignorant reactions to invisible disabilities can further expose incorrect perceptions about disability in general, reinforcing certain stigmas and leading to misunderstandings.
Invisible Disability Awareness
Ableism can come in many forms, and those with invisible disabilities may experience varying levels of discrimination. Educating yourself, understanding what is meant by non-visible disabilities and recognising how society treats such disabilities are among the first steps towards helping reduce the barriers faced by individuals with non-visible disabilities.
Support begins with respect as the bare minimum. Respect that you may not be able to tell if someone has a disability and respect that how someone expresses their disability is their choice.
Ensuring we create an environment where everyone feels included and accepted is just one of the things we strive for. Everyone deserves a break and a chance to escape the everyday routine. Here at Calvert Exmoor, our accessible adventure activities ensure everyone, no matter their ability, can experience a holiday to remember.
If a break full of accessible climbing, zip lining, archery and more sounds like something you or a loved one would enjoy, please get in touch with the Calvert Exmoor team to book a stay with us.
Tips for Applying for Disability Grants & Funding
Making ends meet is not always easy, and ensuring you can cover daily costs is something that is, unsurprisingly, causing more people more anxiety as the cost of living rises. Disability grants can be invaluable when it comes to finding additional funding for the things you need.
Whether you need money for specialist equipment or to fund a holiday full of disability adventure activities, there are several brilliant grants you can access. But how can you best ensure your grant application is successful?
What Can You Get Disability Grants For?
A grant is a sum of money that you do not have to repay. There are a number of charitable organisations dedicated to supporting people with disabilities that award grants, usually providing money to be spent on something particular. This might include:
- Housing and adapting the home
- Mobility support
- Specialist equipment
- Education
- Recreation
- Holidays and short breaks
Costs for the daily essentials can mount significantly, so seeking a grant may help relieve some of your financial pressure.
Finding the right grant for your needs is important; organisations want to send money to the right people at the right time.
What Benefits Are You Eligible For?
Your search for the right grant will likely begin with checking which government-provided benefits you are eligible for and whether you are claiming all you can.
Check with your local authorities about the support you may be entitled to. This does not just include support for those with disabilities; you may be able to claim other benefits if you are also on a low income, are unable to work or are caring for someone.
You will likely not be granted funding from a charitable organisation for something the government supplies, so make sure you are well versed in all the possible financial help for people with disabilities provided by them first.
Finding the Right Disability Grant
If you have applied for state-funded benefits but still require additional support, there are some great charities to turn to.
The easiest way to find the right funder is through grant search tools that organise grants by category or disability, helping to narrow down the places you will need to consider applying to. You can also go straight to charities that cater specifically to particular conditions and disabilities.
Turn2us provides an invaluable resource with their grants search function that’ll show you the most relevant grants for your situation. Their A to Z of benefits is another useful tool that highlights the best places to get support.
Disability Grants offers another fantastic database of resources, allowing you to find grants by category and more particular niches.
Once you have found your list of potential grant providers, you will need to fill in the necessary applications.
How to Fill in an Application
Making a grant application can seem like a daunting prospect, especially if you are applying to several places.
Each funder will probably have their own application process, so make sure you read through all the terms of each in case there are any unique quirks. In most, if not all, cases, applications will be made through the chosen funders’ website, usually via some kind of online form, although some may ask for a letter explaining your case.
Meeting the Eligibility Criteria
Familiarise yourself with the charity’s eligibility criteria – if you do not meet it, they will likely not make exceptions, so don’t make any applications unless you’re confident you’re in line with all the requirements.
Some charities may also only allow you to make one application a year or within a certain time frame, so ensure you are aware of any stipulations like this before going in.
Ask Questions
If you are unsure whether you qualify or not, try getting in touch with the charity’s support team. They may be able to provide additional guidance on making your application and finding the funding you need.
They may also be able to tell you about the funding priorities and when to apply again if you are unsuccessful.
What Information Will You Need?
To make sure it’s clear you meet the eligibility criteria, try to include as much information as possible when filling in your application.
This will include:
- Who the funding is for – yourself, a family member or someone else.
- Why you need funding – your situation or condition.
- What the funding will be used for – how will it have a positive impact?
- Supporting evidence – recommendations from professionals or confirmation you cannot get statutory funding.
- Financial evidence – any relevant evidence about income or previous grants.
Third Party Applications
Some providers will ask for applications to be made through support professionals and third parties like social workers or therapists, so make sure to follow up with them if that is the case.
Professionals like this may also be able to help you access other funding streams you hadn’t been aware of before.
Show You’ve Done Your Research
When setting out what you need and why, include as many details as possible. Show exactly how the money will be spent and how much you ideally need to prove you’ve done the research.
Include any quotes or cost projections to give plenty of clarity on your requirements.
The amount of funding organisations can award is often very limited, so don’t be discouraged if your application is not successful straight away; it may just be a case of timing.
If you are seeking funding for an accessible holiday with us, we may be able to offer bursary money to help cover some of the costs. Plenty of other organisations also provide holiday grants for people with disabilities that will make a break away possible.
To find out more about a holiday at Calvert Exmoor and potential bursary options, please get in touch with our team.
How to Get into Disability Sports
How to Get into Disability Sports
Keeping active by getting involved in different sports is beneficial for body, mind and soul, no matter your ability. However, putting yourself out there and participating in a new sport can be easier said than done, especially if society has put barriers in your path before.
Accessible sports and activities are becoming more widespread as disability awareness improves and the need for inclusive spaces is understood by more people. As a provider of holidays for people with disabilities, we’ve seen time and again how beneficial adventure and activity can be, so are always keen to see more people pursue the sports they love!
Finding the Right Disability Sport For You
No matter what sport you’re interested in, chances are it can be adapted to your needs and made accessible to everyone. Maybe you’ve been inspired by others in your lives or have taken an interest in a sport you’ve seen played on TV? There are countless sports to explore:
- Wheelchair rugby
- Accessible cycling
- Inclusive football
- Wheelchair tennis
- Goalball
- Accessible watersports
These are obviously just a snapshot of some popular sports you could get into, but with the right equipment and club, there is no limit to the activities you can get involved in as someone with disabilities. From inclusive gymnastics to climbing to sailing, there is something for everyone, regardless of age, ability or interest.
Finding Your Local Accessible Sports Clubs
But how can you start getting involved?
Aside from just starting out on your own, the most obvious place to start is seeking a dedicated or inclusive club for your sport in your local area. Taking to social media and finding relevant Facebook groups or club pages is a good initial step and may help unearth some interesting sports you wouldn’t have thought about trying before.
The organisation Parasport provides a very handy activity finder that’ll help you narrow down the search and show what kind of sports events are being held near you, again giving you a good idea of the types of clubs operating in your area.
Finding An Inclusive Gym
If you want to build your strength or keep fit more generally, you may also be drawn to joining a gym. Starting at a gym can be daunting, doubly so if you’re not sure whether they can provide a welcoming environment with the support you need.
The Inclusive Fitness Initiative works to make gyms more accessible to people with disabilities and aims to close the activity gap. Gyms with IFI Mark accreditation are recognised as becoming more disability-friendly.
There are now more than 400 gyms with the IFI Mark around the UK, so it is well worth seeing if there are any local to you.
Resources for Accessible Sports
There are lots of organisations doing important work to increase the availability of sports and encourage the best ways to keep active for people with disabilities.
Among these, notable examples include the seven National Disability Sports Organisations:
- British Blind Sport
- Cerebral Palsy Sport
- Dwarf Sports Association UK
- LimbPower
- Special Olympics Great Britain
- UK Deaf Sport
- WheelPower
If you want to get serious about your sport, these are the organisations to turn to! You will be able to access support, advice and opportunities with the resources they provide.
Activity Alliance also provides some great resources regarding sports and disability, especially for other organisations that want to make themselves more accessible and offer better disability-friendly activities and environments.
Accessible Sporting Equipment
Depending on the sport you’re doing, you may need specialist equipment to take part comfortably and safely. Many accessible clubs will have the equipment you need or make the necessary adaptations; however, don’t take this as a given – you may have to seek out your own equipment for certain sports.
If you’re planning on putting a lot of time into a sport and getting a lot of enjoyment out of it, it may be worth investing in your own equipment. For example, if cycling is something you’re starting to love, but you can only do it with your local club’s bike, it may be worth investing in your own handcycle or recumbent bike.
Accessible sporting equipment can be expensive, but the physical and mental benefits of staying active can make it worth the cost. Plus, you may be able to get grants or support from disability sports charities that could help cover the costs of the equipment you’re after.
Accessible Activity Holidays
If you can’t find anywhere local that is offering the level of accessibility and activities you want, it may be time to seek adventure a little further afield.
Accessible holidays that offer a range of activities provide a great opportunity to get truly active and step out of your comfort zone. Depending on the centre you visit, you could try things like horse riding, zip lining, abseiling and surfing the waves – if that’s not getting active, we don’t know what is!
Holidays like these provide a chance to get away from the normal routine and try your hand at lots of different sports or physical activities somewhere you know will be able to cater to your needs and support you throughout your stay.
Here at Calvert Exmoor, our guests can participate in a whole host of accessible adventure activities and sporting endeavours during the day before retiring to our accessible accommodation to relax in the evenings for a fulfilling and memorable holiday experience.
If this sounds like something you or a loved one would enjoy, please get in touch to find out more about booking a stay with us.