Colin wrote this poem as a Staff Development Officer way back in 1991 when asked by his supervisor to evaluate a “Disability Awareness” session he had recently facilitated with the residents of a care home.

"A FOUR INCH PAVEMENT - DON'T YOU SEE
THAT'S WHAT DISABILITY MEANS TO ME"
"I CANNOT GET ON A BUS
AND I'D SAY THAT GOES FOR ALL OF US."
"HE'S AN EPILEPTIC SO HE CAN'T SWIM
THAT'S WHAT DISABILITY MEANS TO HIM."
Words of wisdom from 'The Oaks'
Expressed with a sentiment that really provokes.

In many years as a 'carer'
Searching for a system that is fairer
In providing a service second to none
And giving rights to everyone.
I must not have looked so far and wide
The answers were right there by my side.
Although they spoke about what they needed
The real requests often went unheeded.

We've had it our way for far too long
And if I say we got it wrong
I'm sure there are others who would disagree
But I am thankful it is them and not me
Who are limited by 'professionals' like myself
Making restrictions for 'the good of your health'
Disability is not some medical blurb
DISABILITY IS A FOUR-INCH KERB.

The English is not brilliant – but the sentiment shines through. Colin is now almost 20 years older and wiser – and aware of aches and pains of his own. He will evoke and provoke your staff into recognising individuals – and the person behind the disability. Inspired by the late Glynn Vernon – Colin works with staff – and residents if required (separately or together) and allows time to reflect and really get inside “the disability”.

The theory behind the course plays a major part in the choice, dignity and respect aspects of NVQ Health & Social Care Awards.

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Links to QCF Diploma Knowledge Evidence

Unit 1 Health & Social Care Adults/Unit 8 Children and Young People's Workforce

Promote communication in health, social care or children’s and young people’s settings

1.    Understand why effective communication is important in the work setting

2.    Be able to meet the communication and language needs, wishes and preferences of individuals:

3.    Be able to overcome barriers to communication

4.    Be able to apply principles and practices relating to confidentiality

Unit 32 Health & Social Care Adults

Understand models of disability

1.    Understand the difference between models of disabilty

2.    Understand how the adoption of models of disability can shape an individual's identity and experience

3.    Understand how the adoption of models of disability can shape service delivery