SeeAbility is a UK charity that empowers people with learning disabilities, autism and sight loss to live ambitious lives achieving things they never thought possible.

Whether it's forming more friendships and relationships, enjoying new experiences, or finding employment, our aim is for inclusive communities where people with disabilities, like James, can live, love, thrive and belong as equals in society.

When James was 19 years old, he was involved in a motorbike accident which constrained him to a wheelchair with multiple injuries and brain damage.

Before his accident, James was confident and open about his sexuality as a member of the LGBTQ+ community and had always wanted to find a partner to he could share his life with. However, his accident left him feeling insecure and anxious about being judged for his appearance.

From insecurity to belonging

With support from his SeeAbility support worker, Carl, James started going to the gym, which helped to build his confidence. Carl even took James on his first night out to Vaults, an LGBTQ+ bar in Exeter. James explains:

"It was such an eye-opening experience for me, being put in a situation where I could feel completely comfortable with my sexuality. I loved it. I felt like Id found my community."

The people we support challenge us all to rethink disability and inclusion. With your help, we believe we can make inclusion a reality by ensuring every voice is heard and that no one with a disability is left behind or alone.