Why You Should Work With A Disability Content Specialist

It's a familiar story, and it usually goes like this:

You’ve got an amazing organisation, a brilliant product, or a world-changing service.

You know it can help people.

So, you write a blog post about it, explaining all the features and benefits. You send out a newsletter. And post on social media.

Only to hear... the void.

If that moment of silence feels familiar, take a deep breath because you’re definitely not alone.

In fact, the lacking whoosh moment is the most common frustration I hear from leaders.

What do I mean?

Well, the problem isn't the truth of what you're saying; it's how you're delivering it.

You're handing out cold, hard facts when your audience is desperately craving a good, warm story they can connect with.

Why is this important?

Let's take a closer look.

Why a good story is marketing magic

To be clear, nobody’s life was ever changed by a bullet-point list of features. Our brains are wired to connect with stories. A great story builds trust, creates an emotional connection, and makes people feel seen.

Why should you care?

When you're creating content about disability and inclusion, the words you choose are a big deal.

And the first bit of copy on your website or in an email?

It's basically your first handshake, the thing that shows disabled people you genuinely "get it."

And, that’s where I swoop in.

As a disability content specialist, my job isn't just to write for your brand; it’s to step in as your trusted guide and craft communication strategies that give you two things that matter most:

• Confidence: Ethical, accessible, and legally sound content, so you replace the fuzz with clarity.
• Connection: Authentic engagement with the multi-trillion-dollar disability market, so you earn genuine loyalty.

And, the outcome?

Simple.

An honest, trusted voice becomes your brand’s storyteller and fuels your world-changing mission.

You might be thinking: Okay Lia, what makes you different?

First off, my inner English teacher is that person, a total stickler for grammar and getting details to stick just right.

Then there’s my time as a co-founder and marketing manager at Lara Guide Dog School, where I learned what it really takes to build a community that cares.

And my lived experience as a disabled woman?

That’s the heart of it all. I don’t just write about inclusion, I live it every day.

This unique mix is why I love partnering with brands and non-profits who are ready to do the work from the start, the right way.

Because for me, the disability community isn't just a niche.

It's my community.

How do we get started?

My 3-step process for crafting your brand's story

After years of tweaking, I use a clear three-step roadmap to transform ignored, inaccessible messages into content that embraces everyone.

And, it all starts with the most important thing:

Your brand is not the hero of the story.

Step 1: Find your hero (Hint: It's not your brand)

So, how do I get to know your hero?

Honestly, it’s the one part of my job where I save a ton of money on coffee.

While other writers might be brewing a huge pot for a long night of research and fact-checking, I get to start with the inside scoop.

What are the frustrations of the disability community? What do they secretly wish for in a product or service?

Thanks to my lived experience, I don’t have to guess at the answers (I’ve already scribbled plenty on my coffee shop napkins).

And if one’s missing?

I have a network of brilliant, disability-inclusive experts ready to fill in the gaps.

Step 2: Highlight the problem they're facing

A story without a challenge isn't a story at all.

So I paint a clear picture of the problem your hero is facing, and I show them how you understand their struggle.

Then, I take their nagging internal monologue—the anxieties, the hopes, the "I just wish someone would..." thoughts, and put them on the page.

This is the most crucial step for building trust.

Because when a reader sees their own frustrations looking back at them, they lean in and think, "Finally. Somebody who gets it."

Step 3: Introducing you as the guide with a clear roadmap

Once the hero and their problem are clear, I introduce you—not as another hero, but as the experienced, empathetic guide who can help them win.

From here, I build an accessible content strategy that makes disabled people feel truly welcome, write content that answers their questions with genuine insight, and position your brand as the inclusive solution they’ve been looking for.

Putting it all together, you now become the bridge between their problem and your offer.

You're the climber. I'm your guide

Now I want to turn it over to you.

Think about your customers and their goals. Your customer is a determined mountaineer, trying to reach the highest summit.

And you? Well, you're not a competing climber trying to get there first; you're their expert Sherpa.

Because you've navigated this terrain before.

You know where the hidden dangers are, you carry the essential tools, and you guide them on the safest, most effective path to the top.

Sure, they still have to do the climbing, but your expert guidance makes their success possible.

This is a powerful guide-client relationship lesson I learned when hiking in the Swiss Alps with my dog, Max.

One day, we took a "shortcut" that quickly turned into a slippery mess of loose rock. We were only 200 meters from the easy path, but the self-doubt was instant (and the fidgety feeling!). 

If I had hired a local mountain guide, they would have seen the hidden risk and steered us to the safe path, saving us hours of worry and fear of a stumble.

That feeling of confusion and risk? 

Believe me, that's exactly what your customer feels when they see generic, blah, blah content.

So, what's the answer?

How can you remove the guesswork and the fuzz, so you don't risk a single step?

Let's team up.

I'll write the words that give you the whoosh of confidence and turn your audience into loyal fans.

Ready to tell a better story?

If you’re a brand, non-profit, healthcare organisation, or agency working to connect with the disability community, I’d love to hear from you.

Go on. Grab a cup of coffee and get in touch to chat about your project. I'm here to help you get it right.

Stay bright!

Is Your Fintech App Accidentally Turning Customers Away? 3 Simple Lessons to Welcome Them In

You've spent a small fortune on your new app.

The design is sleek. The features are cutting-edge. You’ve followed all the best practices.

And yet, a nagging question remains:

Are you leaving money on the table?

Are there customers who land on your app, feel overwhelmed, and quietly leave, never to return?

For millions of people with disabilities, the answer is yes.

I recently reviewed feedback from five people with different disabilities about their digital banking experiences, and their stories aren’t niche anomalies.

They're a masterclass in how small design flaws create huge barriers, and how fixing them creates a better product for everyone.

Now, a company like BankAbility shows us how it’s done.

By studying what they get right, we can pull a powerful lesson: making things accessible is one of the smartest business decisions you’ll ever make.

But first, here are 3 key takeaways your business can adopt immediately.

Key Takeaways for Your Business:

• Simplicity is power: A clean design lowers confusion, which means happier customers and fewer support calls.
• Inclusive features scale: Tools built for accessibility often become beloved by your entire user base.
• Respect builds loyalty: When customers feel seen and valued, you build powerful trust and make them want to choose you. And stay with you.

The 3 lessons below are more than just a business strategy.

They're a blueprint for building a more inclusive product, earning unbreakable trust, and genuinely connecting with all your customers.

Lesson 1: Could a simpler design be your most profitable feature?

Have you ever opened an app and felt a wave of confusion?

A jumble of tiny numbers, confusing charts, and too many buttons?

Alex, a speaker with Asperger's, explains:

The problem is a lack of clarity. In his banking app, money coming in and money going out are in the same column, distinguished only by a light blue font.

This simple design choice makes it incredibly difficult to track payments.

Worse, the search function is so frustrating that he often gives up.

He says: "This is extremely annoying and often results in me just giving up...or I have to wait till I am on my pc."

What does this mean for you? 

When Alex "gives up," you experience a failed customer interaction.

And, you create a negative brand experience.

But a simple, intuitive design can have a direct impact on your bottom line by:

• Reducing user errors and frustration.
• Building user confidence and task completion.
• Dramatically cutting down on the number of people who, like Alex, abandon the task entirely.

The truth is, nobody, not even your most tech-savvy power user, enjoys being confused.

So, when an app like BankAbility uses a clean, simple interface, it’s not "dumbing down" the experience.

It's making it frictionless. It's a gesture of respect for the user's time and attention.

Imagine what you could do with the time and money you save.

That’s the power of daring to be simple.

Lesson 2: What do a new parent and a busy professional have in common?

The surprising answer: they both benefit when you design for accessibility.

Consider the experience of Kris, an office manager with Down Syndrome.

He used to struggle to remember his login details, making it hard to manage his own money. Now, he uses Face Recognition on his iPhone.

For Kris, this isn't a cool gadget; it's a life-changing key to independence.

But who else uses face recognition?

• The new parent who needs to log in with one hand while holding a baby.
• The busy professional who values the speed and security of logging in with a glance.

Do you see what happens?

A feature that is essential for Kris is a delight for everyone else.

And this is why consistent accessibility matters.

Because, despite this great feature, Kris was forced to go to the bank in person for what he considers basic tasks, like deleting an old payee from his account.

Yes, the bank solved a complex problem (authentication), but it failed on a simple one—basic account management.

What does this mean for you?

Inclusive features are often your most innovative features.

And, accessibility isn't a one-and-done checklist.

You must apply it to every single customer journey, from logging in to completing a basic transaction.

Lesson 3: What if your best feature isn't a feature at all?

It's a crowded market, and everyone competes on features. But one thing stands out: trust.

For Krishna, a scientific researcher with ADHD and dyslexia, this is a daily reality.

He describes most banking apps as a "distracting minefield that overwhelms when trying to find simple things."

The best "feature" you can possibly offer is the feeling of being seen, respected, and cared for.

When you invest in making your products truly accessible, you send a powerful, unspoken message:

"We see you. We value you. We believe you deserve a stress-free experience."

This is how you turn a casual customer into a passionate advocate for your brand.

Now, they won't just use your app; they'll shout about it to their friends. They will defend you. They will become your most effective and authentic marketing team.

Your next step doesn't have to be complicated

Hearing the stories of Kris, Krishna, and Alex might feel overwhelming.

It might seem like the solutions are complex, technical, and expensive.

They're not.

BankAbility can help make online banking accessible, proving it’s possible to get it right.

They focus on simple design, inclusive features, and building trust through accessibility—and their users benefit across the board.

Your journey can start the same way.

One clear, thoughtful improvement at a time.

Each step reduces friction, delights users, strengthens trust, and protects your brand.

5 Expert Mental Health Tips for Children With Cerebral Palsy

You knew this day would come. 

You just didn’t think it would be so soon.

And now, you’re facing something that often gets overlooked. Sometimes, even ignored by doctors, teachers, parents, and your own children.

Mental health.

So, how do you empower mental health for your child with Cerebral Palsy?

I spoke with experts and parents who’ve experienced this firsthand, and these are their top five mental health tips.

1.   Encourage a bright future

The truth is, when you’re raising a child with Cerebral Palsy, it’s easy to picture a future that feels tough and full of limits.

Even parents shift the focus and try to manage behavior instead of helping children grow their independence.

And when expectations stay low, kids start to believe it too.

They feel like they’re not good enough before they even have a chance.

One example is Briane, a 32 year old woman with mild spastic diplegia who shared her experience: 

“I'm 32 and I am just now working on driving because my family didn’t want to let me try driving to school. There was zero encouragement, only fear and anxiety that I would kill someone when they hadn't even taken me to an empty parking lot to test perception or anything."

So, when I did get behind the wheel, I had panic attacks and full-on meltdowns. 

Don’t let this be you.

A big part of your child's mental health comes down to how much they feel.

Encouraged. Supported. And, loved.

This makes all the difference in how they handle what life throws at them.

So go ahead, give your child as many opportunities to experience life to its fullest. 

2.   Team up with teachers for a custom learning  strategy

Kids with Cerebral Palsy don’t just deal with challenges at home, they also miss a lot of school because of health issues.

And missing school can make it even harder to keep up with learning and staying involved.

Jeremy D. Finn, a psychologist and professor at SUNY, said:

“The way students connect and engage with their school environment, with their peers, and with materials, shapes how they experience school.”

In other words, it’s not just about wanting to participate.

Children thrive when they can choose how they want to be involved.

But for kids with Cerebral Palsy, gaining independence can be tricky.

Some kids are only a little affected, while others face bigger challenges.

That’s why it’s so important to get as much information as you can to build a plan that actually fits your child.

Is your child high tone or low tone? Are they walking independently, using a walker, or a wheelchair? Do they speak verbally, or use a communication device? Do they have a visual disability?

Work closely with their teachers and their therapy team and set the right goals for them.

In my experience as a teacher for students with visual impairements (TVI), progress isn’t just about grades or test scores.

It’s in the small, meaningful wins that build real independence, and empower mental health.

Like learning to use a communication device. Taking their first steps with adaptive gear. Or finding what activity lights them up inside.

Every milestone — every shaky first step, a new word spoken, or a spark of excitement while trying something new, reflects grit, creativity, and the power that comes from having the right people cheering them on.

So offer your child different ways to learn. 

This might look like a combination of homeschooling and public school, or attending private school.

If you want to learn more about Individualised Educational Programs (IEPs) visit Kids Health.

Whatever path you take, build a foundation that feels steady, safe, and strong enough to lift their mental health and confidence as they grow.

3. Make Space for Fun, Growth, and Mental Health

I know the feeling.

Between managing daily life, worrying about mental health, and juggling school stuff, fun and downtime barely get noticed.

But the truth is, fun matters too.

Swimming, painting a messy picture, joining a soccer club, or just hanging out with friends — these moments build skills, boost mental and physical health, uncover hidden talents, and create real, lasting friendships.

When your child does what they love they can figure out who they are, how to take charge at home, at school, and in the community.

And, if you’re running out of ideas (or just feeling burnt out from trying to plan everything), helping your child start a hobby can take a huge load off.

Here are some examples that I love: 

• Music and dancing (a great way for children to express themselves, connect with others, and have fun).
• Accessible sports like soccer, riding, and swimming (visit Move United).
• Gardening (can be done seated or standing, it helps improve mobility, concentration, and focus). 
• Arts and crafts (hands-on activities that improve motor skills, increase focus and strengthen social connections). 
• Video games (many games today have adaptive controllers and accessibility options).

Obviously this list isn’t extensive.

There are many more activities and hobbies that empower mental health.

So, go on.

Make space for hobbies and fun.

4.   Encourage disabled and non-disabled relationships 

Ever wondered if your child will be invited to birthday parties? Or chosen to sit with at the cafeteria at school?

I have.

When my son was diagnosed with epilepsy, these questions burned in my mind. And, they left me feeling desperate and frustrated.

Will his disability limit his social life? Will he miss the chance to create real, long-lasting connections? 

Honestly, parents tend to get caught up in learning that they forget the magic of letting kids connect and learn about each other. 

But children feel better when they’re actually part of social life, not just sitting in it.

For example, in my son’s class, there are 20 kids, and 9 of them have disabilities.

So here’s what we did (in and out of school) to make sure Niklaas could build real friendships: 

• Planned activities that encouraged teamwork (like buddy programs). 
• Talked openly about differences and abilities — normalize it, don’t make it a big, separate deal. 
• Assigned mixed groups during activities to promote natural interactions.
• Assigned peer “buddies” who can help with academic and social participation — but avoided making one student feel like a “helper” and the other like a “project”. 
• Created games and projects where diverse skills shine (art, building tasks, storytelling circles, gardening).
• Involved children with disabilities in visible ways in school and community projects.

At the end of the day, positive interaction with other children empowers mental health, but it doesn’t always happen on its own.

So put your mitts on and get involved in friendship building. 

 5. Nurture Social Emotional Learning (SEL)

A recent study from Yale found that children involved in Social Emotional Learning (SEL) showed a boost in emotional skills like self-confidence, resilience, and optimism.

Not only that, but they also experienced less anxiety, stress, and depression, and felt more connected and included at school.

Today, International SEL Day gets its own day—happening every year on the second Friday of March. 

One thing is for sure.

Social-emotional learning (SEL) empowers mental health for all kids—especially those with cerebral palsy. 

But how?

Let me show you. 

• Identify emotions (drawing, acting them out)
• Use role-playing games to teach coping strategies (practice asking for help, and conflict resolution).
• Praise emotional efforts as much as academic ones ("You showed great patience today when the game rules changed.”).
• Volunteer or donate (children will learn to understand and connect with people from all sorts of backgrounds). 
• Relieve stress (help your child recognize when they’re upset, help them build self-awareness, and manage emotions with mindfulness, exercise, or music).

Now it’s your turn.

You have the power to enhance mental health, improve social-emotional skills, and foster a supportive learning environment for your child. 

Lead with honesty, support, and big love

It’s true. 

People treat children with cerebral palsy differently, and sometimes less than. 

Your child will have to work harder than anyone else because this is what it still means to be disabled in our world.

So remember: while your worries are real, your fears and anxieties are your own. Your role as a parent is to teach your child how to handle big feelings, how to communicate and work through them, in a healthy and positive way.

When you do this, you’ll empower your child’s mental health naturally. 

So, all you can ever do is be honest, be supportive, and give your child as many opportunities to experience life to its fullest.

Alt text vs Image Descriptions (Untangling The Differences)

You’ve just spent forever writing an engaging post.

Every word chosen with care, every sentence fine-tuned to shine. You’ve sprinkled your soul into it, and it shows.

But trying to decide between alt text and image descriptions can be tricky, right?

They seem so similar—what’s the real difference? And more importantly, which one should you choose to seal your brand’s trustworthiness?

The truth is, both are little whispers of trust, but they speak to your audience in completely different ways.

Let's look at the three strategic differences that will bring sunshiny clarity to your content plan.

But first, let’s talk about why alt text and image descriptions matter beyond a checklist.

Assistive technology (A brief intro)

People with visual disabilities use assistive tools and programs (like screen readers, magnification, enlarging font size, and text-to-voice) to access your digital content.

This means they need clear, concise image summaries, and that’s where alt text and image descriptions come in. They bring your visuals to life.

But that’s not all.

These whispers aren't just for accessibility; they’re marketing magic, too.

You see, when Google reads clear, detailed descriptions, it rewards your visibility.

So, taking a bit of extra time on crisp alt text and image descriptions isn’t just good for accessibility, it’s also smart SEO.

Now, let's untangle the three differences.

Untangling the differences between alt text and image descriptions

People often mix up alt text and image descriptions, but they’re actually not the same thing.

In fact, they serve different purposes.

So here are 3 key differences to help you understand them more. 

1. Location

Alt text: Think of alt text as your secret handshake. It’s tucked away in the metadata or a dedicated "Alt Text" box, and it's usually only visible to screen readers, which read it aloud.

Image descriptions: This is your public handshake. It lives right out in the open—in your caption, next to the image, or in the body of your post—and can be read by everyone, including users who rely on screen magnification or text-to-speech software.

2. Visibility

Alt text is usually only visible to screen readers, which read the alt text out loud or display it on a braille display.

Image descriptions can be read by people with vision disabilities using other assistive tech (like magnification, enlarging font size, and text to voice).

3. Length

Alt text: Must be a short, clear description capturing the image's core content and purpose. It's added to a technical tag, so clarity is key. It needs to be brief and impactful.

Image descriptions: While there's no "ideal" length, the purpose here is completeness. Your description can be longer, offering more visual and emotional details so your reader can step right into the picture.

Here’s an example:

Alt text: Disability Writer, Lia Stoll, is standing next to her guide dog team.

Image description: Lia Stoll stands with her client, Yvonne and her grey Giant Poodle guide dog, Zorro; they're all beaming.

That’s it.

Now, you can practice what you learned and create accessible social media content that helps you reach a wider audience.

The secret ingredient to reaching a wider audience

Image descriptions and alt text open the door.

They turn visuals into something everyone can engage with.

But remember, it’s not just about compliance. It’s about building a brand that shows genuine care.

When you take the extra time to get them right, everyone has equal access to your message, your story, and the amazing business you've built.

Stay bright!

Grab my accessibility checklist straight to your inbox and automatically join Disability Tidbits—a bi-weekly newsletter packed with inclusivity tips to help you keep moving forward.

How To Create Image Descriptions (and Get Your Content Seen)

Let’s start with a little truth.

Writing image descriptions can be tricky.

There’s no perfect template, no hard-and-rigid rules.

In fact, it’s a creative, thoughtful process, and it’s wonderfully subjective.

Each image brings its own story, and you get to decide what part of that story is most important to tell.

So, when you're writing an image description, think of yourself as the narrator; you're helping someone “see” through your words.

So, let’s break it down:

Here are 3 ways to help you get started, plus 10 tips to help you write image descriptions that are thoughtful, useful, and enjoyable to read.

Ready?

3 questions to get you started

Anna Maria Gkertsou—co-founder of Lara Guide Dog School and a guide dog user herself—shares three simple questions to help us get started.

1. What’s the most meaningful part of the image?

Long image descriptions can get hard to follow when the main point is delayed or broken up. 

Your description should reflect what really matters in the image and describe the information people need to understand your message, tone, or purpose behind your image.

2. What’s already included in the rest of your post?

If there’s important info already in your caption or body text, especially if your image includes text, you don’t need to repeat it in the image description. 

Focus instead on what’s not visible in the written part of your content.

3. Is anything missing?

Once you’ve written everything, give it a final read. 

Does it feel complete? 

If something’s missing—some piece of context or a key detail—figure out where it belongs. Maybe it fits better in the caption, maybe it makes more sense in the image description.

Go ahead. 

Use these questions to guide your thought process and create image descriptions that make your content accessible. 

10 Friendly Tips for Writing Image Descriptions

Now you know what’s important in getting started, but how do you actually write an image description?

Here are ten friendly tips to make image descriptions feel less intimidating and a little more human. 

1. Keep it simple.

Use clear, plain language to describe what’s visually present. Think of it like describing a scene to a friend. Try not to overthink it, just say what you see, as accurately as you can.

2. Clarity over word count.

Descriptions don’t need to be long, they just need to be helpful. Some images call for a single line, while others (like graphics with a lot of text) might need a little more attention. Don’t worry about length, instead, aim for accuracy.

3. Skip phrases like “image of…”

If your description is in the alt text field, screen readers will already say it’s an image. But if the visual is a painting, graphic, or illustration, it can be helpful to say so and set the scene more clearly.

4. Include visual perspective.

Help the reader imagine the scene more fully. Is it a close-up of a bee on a sunflower? A wide-angle view of a bustling farmers market? A selfie taken from below? These little details can bring the image to life.

5. Watch out for text in images.

If your image has flattened text (like a flyer or quote graphic), a screen reader won’t pick it up. You’ll need to include that info in your description. Quick test: if you can’t highlight the words with your cursor, they’re not accessible.

6. Focus on what matters.

You don’t have to describe everything. Just what’s relevant to the content and context. Ask yourself: What would help someone feel included in this moment? That’s what goes in the description.

7. Spell things out.

Acronyms and abbreviations can trip up screen readers. If you’re using one, type out the full version first. (Example: “Search Engine Optimisation, S. E. O.”)

8. Be mindful with keywords.

If your description is for a website, keywords can help with SEO, but they should never get in the way of clarity or accessibility. Use them only if they make sense, and never stuff them in just to rank.

9. Include identity markers when they add meaning.

If race, gender, age, or another identity detail adds helpful context to the visual or the message you're sharing, include it with care. And if you're not sure, or don’t know how someone identifies, neutral terms like “person” work best.

10. Names are welcome.

If a person, place, or thing in the image is notable or relevant to the story, go ahead and use their name! It helps people connect the dots and get the full picture.

Remember these ten little tips, and you'll be well on your way to creating image descriptions that are inclusive for everyone.

A Few Things to Leave Out

Now that you’re on your way to writing thoughtful, inclusive image descriptions, let’s talk about what not to include:

• Hashtags (aren’t clickable in alt text fields and don't add additional context)
• Emojis (are used for visual content)
• Links (aren't clickable in alt text fields)
• Symbols (like ™ or © get read aloud awkwardly)
• Optional info (keyword stuffing, filler content, credits or promotional blurbs)

Oh, one last thing.

Try not to rely on auto-generated descriptions. They’re usually vague, inconsistent, and often miss the point. A human touch makes a world of difference.

Now, it's your turn.

Avoid excess info and use your touch to create image descriptions that are accessible.

The art of writing image descriptions

When writing image descriptions, your role isn’t just to describe what’s in a picture.

People are already overloaded with visuals, with information, with noise.

Your job is to cut through that, to light the way, and make the image mean something.

Now it's your turn.

Give your audience the full picture—one that’s accessible, intentional, and impactful.

Stay bright!

Grab my accessibility checklist straight to your inbox and automatically join Disability Tidbits—a bi-weekly newsletter packed with inclusivity tips to help you keep moving forward.

10 Practical Tips for Parents Navigating Childhood Dementia

When childhood dementia enters your world, it doesn’t knock gently.

It crashes in, quietly at first.

Then, suddenly, everything changes.

You’re no longer just parenting. You’re navigating seizures, regression, endless doctor visits, and heartbreaks you never imagined.

But you’re not alone.

And while there’s no roadmap for this journey, there are ways to find your footing.

This post brings together expert insights, powerful stories, and 10 deeply compassionate, practical tips to support you and your child through one of life’s most difficult diagnoses.

Let's begin.

The heartbreak behind the diagnosis

In 2023, ABC News introduced us to Rory—a music-loving little boy from Victoria.

Around age 3, his parents noticed small changes: a stumble here, a missed word there.

His mother started noticing he was struggling to put sentences together, and certain words just wouldn’t come out right, By the time he reached primary school, it was clear, Rory was falling behind.

And still, it took more than a year to get an answer.

And just like that, Rory was diagnosed with Sanfilippo syndrome, a form of childhood dementia.

His parents described it as a “slow goodbye.”

“You go through this grief while your child is still here,” said his father, Peter.

This is the invisible reality for thousands of families.

You see, childhood dementia affects 1 in 2,900 children—more than people realise.

And yet, awareness remains dangerously low.

So, where do you start?

I've collected 10 tips that can support you and lighten the load.

Ready?

10 Tips for parents navigating childhood dementia

1. Trust Your Gut—Even When It’s Whispering

You don’t need to wait for something dramatic. If something in your child’s development feels “off” like, language loss, balance changes, and behavioural shifts, listen. Advocate. Keep asking questions. Keep pushing.

2. Request comprehensive genetic testing

Many childhood dementia disorders stem from specific gene mutations and while a genetic diagnosis won’t fix everything it opens the door to tailored care, clinical trials, and, community support.

3. Build a care team you trust

From neurologists to physiotherapists, a team is essential, so find professionals who see your whole child, not just the diagnosis, and who treat you as part of the team, not a passive observer.

4. Use routine to create comfort

When the world becomes unpredictable, a routine can feel like a hug. A gentle, predictable rhythm of meals, play, rest, and therapy offers children emotional security, even as their abilities shift.

5. Prioritize joy over progress

Forget milestones and collect moments. Turn up the music. Paint with fingers. Lie in the grass. Savour the giggles. These aren’t “extras”, they’re medicine for the soul and these precious memories with guide and support you.

6. Let yourself grieve (over and over again)

The brutal truth is, this journey holds layer upon layer of loss. You may grieve the diagnosis, the skills that disappear, and the future you imagined.

That grief is real. Let it out. Talk to a therapist. Scream in the car.

You don’t have to “stay strong." You just have to stay human.

7. Find (or build) your village

Connect with others walking this road. Join a Facebook group. Email a family on the Childhood Dementia Initiative site. Ask your local children’s hospital about rare disease meetups.

Because it’s not about answers, it’s about not feeling so alone.

8. Access every resource you can

There’s no prize for doing this alone. From respite care to grants, counselling and advocacy groups, there is support out there.

9. Learn to speak the language of advocacy

Be relentless for your child. Challenge policies. Ask for extra support at school. If a doctor brushes you off, ask again, and make your voice louder. And when you’re tired, let someone else carry the torch for a bit.

10. Keep hope on the table

Hope doesn’t mean pretending everything’s fine. It means believing in better days, in meaningful moments, and in the power of research, community, and love.

For example, Australia recently added new conditions to its newborn screening program thanks to parent advocacy. Your voice matters.

Advocate for awareness and action

The reality is, childhood dementia is still under the radar for many.

Doctors, lawmakers, and even the public are still unfamiliar with the condition.

And, it's that lack of awareness that leads to delays in diagnosis, misdiagnoses, and a general sense of invisibility for families who are already struggling.

But you have the power to change that.

You have the power to show the world that childhood dementia is not a rare, isolated issue, but a cause that deserves urgent attention.

Every time you speak up, sign a petition or share a story, you’re making a difference. Your voice, and your story, can inspire real change.

So don’t underestimate the power you have to make the world see the urgency of childhood dementia.

Together, we can push for better care and brighter futures for all kids impacted.

Join campaigns like Dementia Strikes Children Too, and share petitions pushing for research funding and better screening.

Because your voice matters.

Helpful Resources for Parents

Resource	Description
Childhood Dementia Initiative	Education, advocacy, and community support for affected families.
Sanfilippo Children’s Foundation	Information, research updates, and family stories.
CanTeen	Support for young carers and family members of seriously ill children.
Batten Disease Support and Research Association	Specialized help for families affected by Batten Disease.
Hand in Hand Parenting	Emotional tools for overwhelmed parents.
Change.org Petition	Sign and share to push for more funding and screening in Australia.

How Banking Can Redefine Customer Experience With The World’s First Accessibility-Focused Banking App

Let’s be honest.

We live in a world where everything is digital... except accessibility.

Sure, we can check our bank balance while walking the dog, watering plants, or reheating yesterday’s pasta.

But what happens when you can’t see the screen clearly, read the tiny text, or even find the “pay” button?

That’s not just an inconvenience.

That’s exclusion.

And for millions of people, it happens every single day.

But what if a banking app actually started with accessibility in mind—from the ground up?

Not an afterthought. Not a compliance checkbox. But a digital experience built around real people, real needs, and real independence.

Welcome, BankAbility.

Accessibility-focused is the new customer experience

The buzzword of the decade?

Customer experience.

But how can we talk about improving customer experience if 43% of UK adults with digital access needs still avoid using banking apps altogether?

And, we’re not just talking about rare cases here.

We’re talking about people with ADHD, visual impairments, learning disabilities, chronic conditions, cognitive differences, temporary impairments…the list goes on.

Accessibility isn’t a niche feature.

It’s a core experience, and BankAbility gets that.

What makes BankAbility different?

BankAbility isn’t just another fintech solution. It’s a full-blown accessibility revolution.

Here’s what makes it stand out.

Personalised user experience

Big text? High-contrast mode? Need to navigate by voice or keyboard only?

No problem.

BankAbility adapts to your needs from the moment you start using it.

Features like screen magnification, high-contrast themes, customisable text highlighting, and voice navigation assist users with sensory, neurological, and physical disabilities. No bumps, no fuss, just smooth sailing.

Seamless Integration

You don’t have to change banks or re-enter information to use BankAbility.

Using Open Banking APIs, BankAbility connects safely and securely to your existing accounts so everything stays where it is, for a smooth and uninterrupted experience.

Zero Barriers

You won’t need to dig for features, call your bank, or guess your way through settings ever again. The app's intuitive design adjusts to you, so everything you need is right where you'd expect it. That means less frustration, more confidence, and a smoother experience every time you log in.

Cross-Device Brilliance

iPhone, Android, desktop—whatever you’re using, BankAbility works flawlessly across them all. So whether you're on the go or at your desk, you can bank without frustration.

This is the Swiss Army knife of banking apps. But make it inclusive.

A real problem, told by real people

Let’s stop for a second and hear from some people who deal with inaccessible banking daily.

Krishna Mooroogen, a researcher living with ADHD, Dyslexia, and Myopia says:

“Several colour combinations, fonts, and lack of dark modes make it hard for me to read the information. I simply cannot see it.”

Kris Foster, a disability campaigner says:

“I can’t do basic tasks like deleting payments or setting up savings. I need to go to a branch, which defeats the purpose of online banking.”

Laura Mathias, communications manager with ADHD:

“I used to avoid my banking app. I’d rather queue at my local branch on a packed Saturday.”

These are real barriers and the time to remove them is now.

Meet the European Accessibility Act (EAA)

Since June 28th, 2025, the European Accessibility Act legally requires all digital financial services across the EU to be accessible.

For banks, this isn’t just a compliance issue.

It’s a make-or-break moment.

Because when you get it right, you future-proof your service.

But when you get it wrong, you’re looking at fines, lawsuits, and a PR nightmare.

So, here’s where BankAbility changes the game.

Banks can integrate the app and instantly meet European Accessibility Act standards.

This means they can:

• Win over customers who’ve been left behind
• Show the world that inclusion is part of your DNA
• Deliver on trust and not just promise it
• Set a new industry benchmark for experience-driven accessibility

No need to re-engineer your own tech from scratch, just a plug-and-play path to compliance that actually serves your customers better.

This is the future of inclusive banking

Let’s not wait for regulation to force change.

Let’s choose to build a better experience, for everyone.

Because this isn’t just a shiny new bank application.

It’s the turning point where customer experience, accessibility, and innovation finally meet.

So here’s the real question:

If your bank could remove barriers, save time, and bring independence back to millions of users…

Why wouldn’t it?

Go ahead.

Redefine your customer experience. Start with accessibility and get on board with Bank Ability.

Stay bright!

Empower Inclusivity: 3 Powerful Solutions and Pro Tips To Overcome Ableism In Your Workplace

It’s hard, right?

One day, you feel like you know exactly how to tackle ableism, and the next, you're wading through uncertainty.

It’s like trying to find the one shiny needle in a massive haystack of confusing advice. It's exasperating,

But guess what?

That feeling is as normal as a sunny day.

I hear it from my clients all the time, and I’ve learned how to swap the fuzz for a clear, actionable plan.

In this guide, I’m sharing 3 powerful solutions to overcome ableism in your workplace, including my favourite pro tips.

These are the steps will turn your intention into a beaming company culture.

Let's Clear the Air: What is Ableism, Really?

Ableism is such a common way of thinking, it’s scary.

It creeps like a dark shadow in our behaviour, in our schools, our language, and yes, our workplaces.

It creates a clutter of harmful beliefs: that disabled people are either broken victims needing protection, or people who receive "too much" kindness.

To top it off, most people think being disabled means you lack independence or rely on others for everything at work.

This belief, that your abilities are superior to those of a disabled person, is ableism.

And, since our society wasn’t built with disabled people in mind, it's natural that we've all internalised some of these beliefs.

How can you move past this and create change in your workplace?

3 solutions to creating a disability-inclusive workplace

In my experience, people have a yucky habit of letting their ableism run wild and this includes the workplace.

I know I have.

For example, I remember family telling me, "Lia, you'd forget your head if it wasn't attached to your shoulders." Teachers would say: "Stop twirling your hair. Why can't you just sit normally like the other students..."

So, I grew up thinking I'm not good enough, I don't fit in, and I learned it's best to hide this behaviour at work so that people don't think I'm weird, and too different.

This belief is damaging.

In fact, it's limiting and leaves us feeling bad about ourselves.

So, what can you do?

Solution 1: Confess your internalised ableism

The first step to ending ableism is to notice how you view a disabled person.

Because we’re talking about people. These are your friends, your colleagues, even your loved ones.

Ask yourself, what influence do your own limiting beliefs have on your behaviour? And, what changes would you crave to see?

Then, engage with your disabled staff.

Dive into their unique needs and internalised ableism, share ideas, and join forces to empower disability inclusion and banish ableism from your business culture.

Who's leading the way?

The National Bank of Canada.

They built accessibility and anti-ableism policies and made accessibility training mandatory for every employee. According to their 2025 accessibility progress report, the results are rolling in fast—59% of staff completed staged disability awareness training by February 2025.

The powerhouse founders of Disabled By Society are redefining what disability inclusion looks like in the workplace.

Celia Chartres-Aris (née Hensman) is a multi-award-winning Disabled government special advisor, campaigner, and policy expert championing disability equity.

Jamie Shields, a multi-award-winning consultant, speaker, and trainer.

Together, they’re leading the way in disability inclusion by offering bespoke services that fast-track inclusive, accessible change.

They also host The Unlearning Ableism Podcast, a heartwarming LinkedIn Live series where curiosity, courage, and connection take centre stage.

But let’s say you've done that.

What's the next step?

There’s no exact science to it, but here’s the process I recommend.

Solution 2: Erase the ability and income gap

Did you know that if you’re a white, male, heterosexual Disabled person, you’re more likely to be welcomed and included at work?

But if you’re Black, a woman, or LGBTQ+ and Disabled—that door doesn’t always swing open so easily.

A recent Economic and Social Research Institute study found that mental health conditions, intellectual disabilities, and autism are judged more harshly than physical or sensory disabilities.

Even more disturbing?

Physically disabled women face more bias in workplace relationships than their male counterparts.

These biases spread like the flu—one person brings it in, and suddenly, ten others catch it.

For the first time, it dawns on you.

If you’re a Disabled person with stable income, strong education, and solid work experience, you’re often seen as independent, capable, and worthy of inclusion.
But most Disabled people don’t have that privilege—and they face the consequences daily.

According to 2024 data:

• In the EU, the employment gap between people with and without disabilities is 24 percentage points.
• In the UK, only 53.1% of Disabled people are employed, compared to 81.6% of non-Disabled people—a 28.5-point gap.

So… how do we start to close this socio-economic, ableist gap?

The key lies in your Disabled employees.

When they’re safely included and valued, they’re more likely to wonder:

“How can we lift up other Disabled people, too?”

That’s where real inclusion begins—inside your workplace.

Here’s what that looked like in action:

Back in 2012, our guide dog school hired its first Disabled, long-term unemployed employee, Alex.

Alex saw possibility everywhere and potential in everyone. His energy was contagious; he turned our ideas into action.

When austerity hit Athens, our funding tanked, and our marketing team felt like a squeezed balloon.

Then Alex got to work—organising a Disability hub and three online brainstorming sessions.

Together, we came up with low-cost campaigns our guide dog handlers could lead.

By 2014, funding had jumped 6.8%.

We did it by uniting voices and lifting each other up.

So, go beyond just hiring Disabled people—truly include those from marginalised and economically underprivileged backgrounds.

Give them a seat, a say, and space to thrive.

Solution 3: Make accessibility inclusive for everyone

Did you know that ableism can change depending on the workplace, and even the type of disability?

Yeap.

A 2024 study from the Economic and Social Research Institute found that employers are more likely to hire someone with a spinal disorder than someone with an anxiety disorder.

In other words, productivity has become the prized trophy.
And as long as we reward only one kind of “productive,” ableism will keep winning.

So how do we flip that script?

Start by giving accessibility the same love and attention you give everything else you create. Make it your design mantra—from hiring and product development to communication and customer experience.

For example:

• Design a website that’s actually accessible.
• Make sure your building welcomes wheelchair users.
• Add braille and tactile guides for blind visitors.
• Create calm, sensory-friendly spaces for neurodivergent people.
• Offer interpreters for Deaf guests.

And here’s where tech can help.

Like a friendly assistant, generative AI supports neurodivergent employees by simplifying information, structuring tasks, and crafting clear messages, smoothing communication and boosting confidence.

Of course, accessibility doesn’t end with a checklist.

The goal is to extend a genuine, human welcome to every disability group.

Why does this matter?

Because empathy expands us. It makes us better humans and turns workplaces into places that feel like home for everyone.

One of my favourite examples is WelcoMe, a free web-based communication tool that connects your staff with disabled visitors before they arrive. It even offers quick, bite-sized training to help your team understand each person’s specific needs—no guesswork, just real support.

That’s how you create true customer-centered magic, every single day.

And when that happens?

Your business becomes a place people trust—because they feel seen, heard, and welcomed.

Give your workplace a fresh start

It's not just a task.

It's an adventure!

Roll up your sleeves, spark your creative juices, and make this disability-inclusive transformation fun and engaging.

Team up with your disabled employees and create a vibrant, equitable workplace for everyone.

Empower inclusivity and overcome ableism.

I'm ready.

Are you?

How To Create An Accessible Workplace For Blind People (And Boost An Inclusive Business Culture)

I know what you're thinking.

Why focus on accessibility for blind people when so many workplaces are already designed for people without disabilities?

When I started sharing insights about accessible workplaces for blind people on LinkedIn, I was blown away by the response.

People from all over the world started listening and, more importantly, taking action.

So, why should you care about creating an accessible workplace for blind people?

Let’s find out.

Creating a smooth workplace experience is like nurturing a friendship

When your friendship gets estranged, it starts to crack and break down. Talking to each other becomes harder. And, perhaps the friendship might even die.

Ioanna Maria Gkertsou, a clinical psychologist who's also a guide dog user, recommends being a safe space for your friend.

Open the lines of communication to reduce friction, and prevent frizzle.

When designing your workplace to be accessible for blind people, you do exactly the same.

First, you create a safe space.

You eliminate barriers and replace inaccessible facilities.

And then, you provide trustworthy information for a silky smooth working experience.

Lucy Edwards, a UK based blind broadcaster says:

"Businesses have to meet certain building regulations like doors opening outwards which is helpful for me and Molly because if it opened inward I might get Molly's paws trapped and that would be awful."

I know what you're thinking:

But, what if my business doesn't have a blind employee or blind customers using our offices?

According to a recent report from the International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness's Vision Atlas, Western Europe has 32.4 million blind people, and by 2050 the numbers are expected to rise to a whopping 49.7 million.

That's a lot of blind people who would feel delighted to use your accessible offices.

For the record, here's a table showing the growing numbers of people with blindness in Western Europe, North America, South East Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East from 2020 to 2050.

Do you see how huge this is?

So, how can you design the faultlessly accessible offices that blind people so desperately desire?

Research and understand the needs of blind people 

As Head of Guide Dog Mobility Services at Lara Guide Dog School, these were the kind of moments that made my job so rewarding.

So, when clients would ask me for support in creating awareness in their company, I knew it meant so much more than that.

I was just here to support awesome guide dog teams navigate their workplace environment.

I was also here to help their coworkers create a workspace that was actually inclusive, not just technically accessible.

I remember stepping into Barbara's office greeted by the rhythmic tapping of her guide dog's tail as it thumped against the floor, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee.

Then we'd listen to the team's perspective, and I'd walk them through some changes like smarter office layouts, tactile markers, and assistive tech that could make a huge difference.

The best part?

Seeing the “aha” moments when they realised accessibility isn’t just about compliance for one disabled person, it’s about making work better for everyone.

As I headed out, Brando gave me a nuzzle, the best kind of positive feedback I could ask for.

When you create an inclusive workplace with a blind person in mind, the most amazing thing in the world happens.

You open yourself up and gain an understanding of the needs of blind people.

This is important when you're designing for accessibility, and crucial if you're looking to create a disability-inclusive business culture.

So, get to know blind people.

Ask them about their preferences, and listen to their perspectives.

Ten features to get you started on accessible workplaces for blind people.

1. Use Braille description (tactile labels) for visual signs like the toilet door symbol, and warning signs like the fire alarm.

2. Provide audio assistance to navigate rooms.

3. Use contrasting colors for door handles and door frames.

4. Use appropriate lighting. 

5. Use colour contrasting for walls and floors.

6. Use the correct level of contrast for surface fittings and stairs.

9. For toilets, clearly define the toilet roll dispenser and provide hand wipes for blind people to quickly clean their hands before touching their cane and finding the sink.

10. Create enough space inside or outside of rooms for guide dogs, and make sure doors open inward.

11. Provide assistive technology.

There you go.

The truth is, creating accessible workplaces doesn't have to feel like a chore that costs.

And the best part is, you'll create that delightful disability-inclusive culture your employees desire.

Make your inclusive business feel like a kind friend

It's true, as a business owner it's hard to neglect accessibility if you want to be inclusive.

And, integrating accessibility in your workplace is more than just offering accommodations.

It's about providing services, products, and an inclusive culture.

It's about creating a business that builds trust.

So go ahead, be a kind friend to blind people.

Design workplaces with blind people in mind, and show the world why you're a true, inclusive business leader.

How To Create Accessible Social Media Content (In 3 Steps)

Have you ever wondered how to create social media content that doesn't just get seen, but gets trusted?

A part of me is always afraid of making a mistake.

But I also know that creating accessible content helps me connect with a wider audience.

And, as a leader, you know that fear can cost you money.

The good news is that creating truly inclusive content isn't just a safety net; it's a lighthouse guiding you to shore, bright, welcoming, and impossible to miss.

It signals safety, professionalism, and genuine care. When your audience is searching for a partner, they look for that light.

So, how can you swap the fidget of anxiety for the sparkling energy of being a lighthouse?

In this post, I'm sharing 3 simple, non-negotiable content tips.

They are your three best tools for expanding your reach, fueling your growth, and becoming a trusted guide in your field.

Let's get to it.

1. Illuminate your images with alt text and image descriptions

Do you want people with visual disabilities to savour the details of your post?

Then promise them a generous vision.

Use alt text.

Alt text: The welcoming handshake

Also called "alt attributes" or “alt descriptions", alt text is the short text you see in the “alt text” box when you create your post.

Think of it as the short, elegant whisper a screen reader uses to communicate your image to a blind or low-vision user.

If you skip this, you are literally posting a blank space with jumbled letters and numbers.

But, when you thoughtfully provide alt text, two powerful things happen for your brand:

1. Trust: Your posts become instantly more welcoming, waving to the multi-trillion-dollar market that you get it.
2. SEO: Google, being the giant search Sherpa it is, rewards clarity. Accurate descriptions (more useful for webcopy, but Instagram’s alt text field does affect search) help rank your content.

Image descriptions: The richer story

Image descriptions are similar, but they give a longer, more detailed, and emotional account, like a gorgeous case study for a single photo.

The difference is in the texture of the story.

Where alt text is a headline, image descriptions are the opening paragraph with a few key differences.

Location:

While alt text is usually attached to image metadata or added in the “alt text” box, image descriptions are found in the image caption, in a text post, or shared in a text link (extended descriptions).

Visibility

Alt text is usually only visible to screen readers, who read the alt text out loud or display it on a braille display.

Image descriptions are “exposed”, and can be read by people with vision disabilities using other assistive tech (like magnification, enlarging font size, and text to voice) can also access your posts.

Length of text

Compared to alt text, image descriptions are usually longer because they go into more visual details and describe emotion. They're also included in the photo caption, a text post, or a text link. For example:

Alt text: Guide dog laying down next to a woman.

Image description: A German Shepherd guide dog with a bright red harness lying down next to a blind woman who is smiling.

When we think of alt text and image descriptions, user experience and accessibility, spring to mind.

But, when you provide accurate and detailed image descriptions Google will know and rank your content in search results.

So go ahead, use your keywords wisely, just be mindful of keyword spamming.

2. Crafting hashtags everyone can read

This social media tip is often misunderstood, but it's the difference between sounding like a trusted expert and sounding like a confused robot.

When a screen reader reads a hashtag like #accessiblehashtags, it must be able to read it as "Accessible Hashtags" (two separate words).

If you skip capitalising the first letter of each new word (example, Pascal Case, like: #AccessibleHashtags), the screen reader sees a long, scrambled word and reads it out as one incomprehensible sound.

That single mistake can make your entire post inaccessible and show the disability community you haven't taken the final step toward caring.

Your simple fix?  

2 ways to create accessible hashtags

1. Camel Case — capitalize the second letter of the second word of your multi-word hashtag like this:

#accessibleHashtag

2. Pascal Case — capitalize the first letter of each word in your multi-word hashtag like this:

#AccessibleHashtags

Gentle reminder: Avoid placing your hashtag inline because screen readers read out punctuation marks, so you can imagine what that sounds like when they're mid-post.

Warning: LinkedIn doesn’t support this feature yet and has a nasty habit of switching them back.

Accessibility tip: Use the text-to-speech program on your phone or the free NonVisual Desktop Access (NVDA) tool to test your hashtags.

3. Using Emojis with intention and care

We all love the little bite-sized emotion that gives a cuddly feeling to our text.

And, while emojis are technically accessible, they need guardrails.

Why?

Because screen readers translate the emoji's meaning aloud.

If you use a long string of them (say, ten pile-of-poop emojis in a row), your audience will get to listen to the phrase "pile of poo" ten times in a row. Definitely a content bump that will make your reader recoil.

Your simple strategy? 

1. Use emojis as an accessory, not a replacement for your text.
2. Use them occasionally and at the end of your sentence to reinforce the emotion, like a friendly wave.
3. Never use them to replace actual words.
4. Always double-check the actual text description on a site like Emojipedia to avoid any unexpected, cringe-worthy surprises.
5. Avoid long emoji strings (remember, the pile of poop example)
6. Avoid changing the colour on customizable emojis because emojis with custom skin tones have extra information, so the content is longer and possibly more confusing for anyone using assistive technology.

Accessibility tip: Learn how to use emojis wisely and double-check descriptions with emojipedia.org. The website lists all emojis, their appearances, and descriptions across platforms, devices, and browsers.

Reach a wider audience with accessible content

You may feel overwhelmed.

You may even feel intimidated by Camel Case hashtags, alt text, and emojis.

But remember, accessibility is an ongoing process. It's a journey up the mountain, not a single leap.

Follow these three simple tips, and your social media posts will show you’re a trusted guide in your field.

Your content will stop being a confusing barrier and start shining like a welcoming lighthouse for the multi-trillion-dollar market.

Are you ready?