Unseen, undervalued, and frequently overlooked – this is how many disabled individuals with complex needs describe their daily experiences within society. In response to this pervasive issue, national charity Sense has launched an innovative awareness-raising campaign aimed at transforming public perceptions and fostering greater inclusion.
A Powerful Artistic Response to Invisibility
The centrepiece of this initiative is a UK-wide touring exhibition featuring a series of striking portraits created by acclaimed disabled artist Tanya Raabe-Webber. These artworks celebrate the lives of disabled people, both past and present, while exploring profound themes of identity, visibility, and human connection.
Tanya Raabe-Webber, who serves as artistic director at Sense and has collaborated with prestigious institutions like the National Portrait Gallery and Tate, explained the motivation behind the project. “Too often disabled people are overlooked and underestimated in our communities. These portraits seek to turn this narrative on its head by showcasing the richness and diversity of disabled lives,” she stated.
Celebrating Individual Stories and Achievements
Among the compelling subjects featured in the portrait series are Bunty, the daughter of Sense co-founder Peggy Freeman, and Kanhai, who is currently supported by the charity’s residential services. Each portrait employs innovative techniques to reflect the unique experiences of its subject.
Bunty, who was born deafblind and passed away in 2018 at age 65, is captured in a portrait that emphasises her joy, movement, and sensory engagement with the world. The artwork incorporates tactile materials and raised painting surfaces to symbolise the many lives she touched during her lifetime.
Kanhai, aged 60, is deaf, has partial sight loss, is non-speaking, autistic, and has a learning disability. His portrait draws inspiration from his personal achievements and distinctive individuality, realised through textured, multi-sensory collage and drawing techniques that invite viewers to engage with his story on multiple levels.
Research Reveals Stark Inequalities
The portrait tour coincides with the publication of new research by Sense that examines the lived experiences of disabled people with complex needs. The findings reveal significant disparities and challenges that persist within contemporary society.
Stephanie Tyrrell, head of arts and wellbeing at Sense, emphasised the importance of this dual approach. “Tanya’s striking portraits put a much-needed spotlight on the lives and experiences of disabled people with complex needs, who too often are forgotten or marginalised in society. Combined with our research findings, we hope to drive meaningful conversation and change,” she explained.
The charity’s survey uncovered several concerning statistics:
- Two thirds (66%) of disabled people with complex needs report feeling invisible in society – unseen and undervalued by their communities.
- 62% experience feelings of loneliness, compared to just 26% of the general public.
- One in seven identify negative public attitudes as their biggest barrier, alongside other challenges including the cost of living crisis and difficulties accessing adequate health and social care services.
- Only 54% believe the Government is genuinely committed to addressing the barriers that prevent disabled people from thriving within their local communities.
Cautious Optimism for the Future
Despite these significant challenges, the research also reveals a measure of cautious optimism among respondents. Approximately 57% of those surveyed believe that society will improve for disabled people over the coming decade, suggesting a growing hope for positive change and greater inclusion.
Parallel Health Research Highlights Systemic Pressures
In related health news, recent analysis of NHS England data has revealed that eye conditions represented the most common single reason for hospital admissions in England last year. The findings, compiled by personalised medical bracelet specialists at The ID Band Company, provide insight into current pressures on the healthcare system.
Cataracts were identified as the most frequent cause of hospital admission, with 374,072 recorded cases – representing a substantial 17% increase compared to the previous year. Pneumonia showed one of the sharpest rises, climbing by 18% year on year, while abdominal pain (319,813 cases) and chest or throat pain (266,281 cases) ranked as the fourth and fifth most common reasons for hospital stays.
Paula Lingard, spokeswoman for The ID Band Company, commented on these findings. “These statistics demonstrate the significant burden that eye conditions place on our healthcare infrastructure. With cataracts topping the list and showing double-digit growth, it’s evident that our ageing population is driving increased demand for these essential treatments,” she observed.
The portrait exhibition by Sense and the accompanying research findings represent a concerted effort to address both the social and systemic challenges faced by disabled individuals. Through artistic expression and evidence-based advocacy, the charity aims to foster a more inclusive society that recognises and values the contributions of all its members.
