Exemplar Health Care, one of the country’s leading nursing care providers for adults living with complex needs, has launched a new social media campaign for International Wheelchair Day.
International Wheelchair Day is an annual global event dedicated to acknowledging the significance of wheelchairs and the empowerment they provide to millions of people worldwide.
The 50-home care group’s campaign has been co-designed by the people they support and aims to recognise the importance of challenging stereotypes and fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
Uniquely, the latest campaign has been co-designed with the Service User Council, which comprises of Ambassadors from each Exemplar Health Care home. The Council provided valuable insights based on their lived experiences and unique journeys with wheelchair use, through one-on-one and group conversations at the Council meetings.
The Council’s input centred around amplifying the voices and stories of individuals who have experienced the positive impact of wheelchairs in their lives. The campaign seeks to shift the narrative from limitations to empowerment, showcasing the diverse ways in which wheelchairs enable people to lead fulfilling lives.
The selected ambassadors include Adam at Greenside Court, Alex at Havenmere, Joel at Bennett Court, Helen at Willowbeck and Neil at Yarningdale.
The residents shared their own unique stories, some having grown up using wheelchairs, and some being introduced to them in adulthood. These stories highlighted the different ways in which their wheelchair use helped them maintain independence during various activities.
Adam, at Greenside Court care home in Rotherham, shared of his experience as a wheelchair user:
“I have no independence without my wheelchair. It gives me a lot more options with what I can do throughout the day, such as going to college.”
Alex, at Havenmere care home in Immingham, said:
“Without my wheelchair, I lose my independence. I can drive through the forest and even attend Download Festival. Having my wheelchair makes it a lot easier to socialise and live my life.”
Joel, at Bennett Court care home in South Elmsall, added:
“My wheelchair helps me to socialise with friends and go to places I couldn’t when I’m tired or there’s extreme weather.”
Neil, at Yarningdale care home in Codnor, said:
“My wheelchair empowers me to achieve my goals. I recently visited the Emirates Stadium to watch my favourite team Arsenal beat Burnley!”
Helen, at Willowbeck care home in Sheffield, explained:
“My wheelchair empowers me to be a Service User Ambassador and attend the [Service User Council] meetings. I also enjoy going shopping, which I can do thanks to my wheelchair.”
Exemplar Health Care acknowledges the sensitivity of the topic and has taken steps to ensure the campaign is respectful and inclusive. In consultation with ambassadors, the campaign aims to promote a positive and empowering message.
