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What is it like living with autism, muscular dystrophy and speech and language difficulties?

In this episode of Dis-labled, Gila shares an honest and emotional account of her daily life. She talks about work, friendships, independence, anxiety, using a wheelchair, and the challenges of navigating a world that doesn't always understand disability.

Gila also opens up about masking, hiding her true feelings, and the pressure to appear happy when things are difficult. Along the way, she reflects on how far she has come, the obstacles she has overcome, and why learning to accept herself has been such an important journey.

This is a powerful conversation about disability, identity, resilience and being yourself.

00:00 Living with Autism & Muscular Dystrophy: Gila's Story
01:00 Meet Gila: Autism, Muscular Dystrophy & Speech and Language Difficulties
02:35 Managing Tiredness, Energy & Everyday Life with Muscular Dystrophy
03:26 Physical Disability: The Things Other People Take for Granted
04:12 Wheelchairs, Stairlifts & Conserving Energy to Stay Independent
05:01 Using a Wheelchair: Staring, Accessibility & Asking for Help
05:38 Physiotherapy, Muscle Tightness & Managing a Physical Disability
06:37 "Why Is She in a Wheelchair if She Can Walk?" Challenging Disability Assumptions
07:33 Everyday Accessibility: Walking, Wheelchairs & Card Payment Machines
08:54 Why Asking for Help Can Be Difficult When You Have a Disability
10:09 Autism & Masking: "You See Me Happy, But Inside I'm Not Okay"
12:12 Trust, Emotions & the Difficulty of Letting People See the Real You
13:17 "I Feel Like I'm Masking With You": An Emotional Moment
14:31 Unmasking, Insecurity & Learning to Be Yourself
15:29 Falling, Mobility & Learning to Live Life on Your Own Terms
16:25 Friendship, Baking, Meditation & Finding Ways to Switch Off
19:22 Carol's Poem "Mind": Feeling Different, Isolated & Wanting to Be Heard
22:19 What Gila Wishes People Understood About Her Disability
23:49 Overcoming Obstacles: "I'm Still Going With My Disability"
25:12 From Masking to "I'm Amazing": Gila Reflects on How Far She's Come
26:30 Self-Acceptance, Positivity & Learning to Love Yourself
28:24 Closing Thoughts | Dis-labled Podcast

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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What becomes possible when disabled and neurodivergent people are genuinely listened to, supported and included?

Recorded live at the Community Focus Summer Festival, this special Dis-labled forum brings together students, speakers, artists, parents, carers and community leaders to share powerful stories of confidence, creativity, employment and belonging.

Hear how opportunities like podcasting, art, creative writing and inclusive workplaces have helped people find their voice, build confidence and become active members of their communities.

Featuring Carol's moving poem Unmasking, Marcus sharing his experience of living with Multiple Sclerosis, Gila from CJ's Bakery, author Vicky Martin, audience contributions, and more.

If you're passionate about disability, inclusion and hearing real stories from real people, this is an episode not to miss.

00:00 Introduction | Community Focus Inclusive Arts, Disability Podcast & Live Forum

01:19 How the Dis-labled Podcast Began | National Lottery Funding, Giving Disabled People a Voice, 70 Episodes of Inclusion

02:39 The Purpose of the Forum | Disability Inclusion, Neurodiversity, Listening to Disabled People, Success Stories

03:11 Meet the Panel | Artists, Authors, Community Leaders, Inclusive Employment & Lived Experience

04:04 Building Self Confidence | Autism, Body Image, Fashion, Self Acceptance, Positive Mindset & Unmasking

07:49 Carol's Powerful Poem 'Unmasking' | Masking, Autism, Mental Health, Identity, Disability Acceptance & Self Worth

09:48 Writing Authentic Autistic Characters | Vicky Martin, Oak Lodge School, Creative Writing, Drama & Neurodivergent Voices

13:00 CJ's Bakery | Meaningful Employment for Adults with Learning Disabilities, Supported Work & Inclusive Business

15:37 From Oak Lodge School Shop to Finches Café | Community Inclusion, Barista Training, Supported Employment & Independent Living

19:17 Marcus's Story | Living with Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Hidden Disability, Art, Confidence & Finding Your Voice

21:02 Audience Discussion | Why Having a Voice Matters, Disability Advocacy, Representation & Being Heard

23:04 Cory on Community Focus | Art, Creativity, Confidence, Belonging & Inclusive Communities

24:24 Parents' Perspective | Equal Opportunities, Disability Equality, Creative Expression & Supporting Disabled Adults

25:04 A Parent Reflects | Autism Then and Now, Bullying, Asperger's, Community Support & How Things Have Changed

26:34 Looking Ahead | Building Stronger Disability Communities, Parent Support Groups, Inclusive Choir & Future Podcast Projects

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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Hello and welcome to another episode of the Dis-labled Podcast.

We're really pleased you've joined us because today is a very special episode.

Over the past three years, we've shared our stories, talked honestly about disability and neurodiversity, had lots of laughs, met some incredible guests and, most importantly, created a place where people can speak openly and be listened to.

Today we're celebrating everything we've achieved together, because we've got some exciting news to share.

We'll be looking back at some of our favourite moments, talking about what being part of the podcast has meant to us, and saying a very special thank you to the people who have helped make it all possible.

So, let's get started!

00:00 Welcome to the Dis-labled Podcast
00:18 Meet the Team: Weekly Catch-up & Why We Love Podcasting
04:45 Big News! National Lottery Community Fund Awards Three Years of Funding
07:05 From Lunch Pod to Dis-labled: How the Podcast Began
09:20 What's Next? Choir, Parent Groups, Schools & Community Projects
12:30 Building Confidence Through Podcasting: What Dis-labled Means to Us
16:36 Favourite Episodes: Self-Confidence, Masking, Poetry & Living with Multiple Sclerosis
25:00 Final Reflections: Thank You, Future Plans & Why Disabled Voices Matter
28:27 Thanks for Listening

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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Dick Van Dyke (of Mary Poppins fame) is now 100 years old, says that staying positive and not holding onto anger is the secret to staying young - and science seems to agree.

Studies show that optimistic people can live around 11 to 15 percent longer, and in some cases even up to 10 years more.

So today, we’re diving into the power of humour, joy, and a positive mindset.

We’re asking: what genuinely makes you laugh no matter your mood? Who are the people that always lift your spirits? And just how important is humour when you’re having a tough day?

We’ll explore whether laughter can really improve your wellbeing, share the jokes and moments that have stuck with us for years, and talk about our go-to ways to cheer ourselves up.

00:01:22 - Intro
00:02:02 - The Good News: Gila's new electric wheelchair
00:06:54 - What makes us laugh every time, no matter the mood?
00:14:14 - Who makes us laugh?
00:18:38 - How important is humour when we're having a tough day?
00:22:14 - Can humour make us laugh and cry at the same time?
00:27:37 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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What is it really like to live with Multiple Sclerosis?

In this episode of Dis-labled, Marcus shares his experience of living with MS, how it affects his daily life, and the challenges he faces along the way. He also talks about the things that keep him motivated, including his love of Marvel, staying positive, and finding purpose through difficult times.

Marcus's message is simple but powerful: don't let a diagnosis define your future.

00:00:16 - Intro
00:01:06 - The Good News
00:03:54 - Marcus explanation of Multiple Sclerosis
00:06:01 - How MS effects Marcus
00:09:16 - Routines with MS
00:14:04 - Can you learn to make things easier?
00:15:05 - Masking Multiple Sclerosis
00:17:00 - Friends with MS and Stages of MS
00:18:30 - What does Marcus do for fun?
00:21:50 - What Marcus wishes people knew about MS
00:24:44 - Marcus' biggest achievements
00:27:35 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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In today's episode we discuss Skills Club, a club within our ARTiculate programme for young people aged 24-30.

Join Tara, Sophia, Dave, Jordan, Stephanos and Flo as they share how Skills Club has helped them develop confidence, creativity, friendships and practical skills through art, volunteering and community projects.

From autism and social anxiety to employment, independence and finding a place to belong, this honest and uplifting conversation explores the real impact that a supportive and inclusive community can have on young disabled adults.

We also hear about the creative projects members have produced, including embroidery, ceramics, textiles and upcycling, and discover how Skills Club helps participants build skills for volunteering, work and everyday life.

To find out more about Skills Club please contact Flo Alfrey on 020 3743 2326, or email [email protected]

00:01:18 - Intro
00:02:00 - What's going on?
00:04:44 - What is Skills Club?
00:06:42 - Philanthropy
00:09:09 - What Skills club means to us
00:13:25 - Favourite projects
00:19:54 - What Community Focus means to us
00:22:19 - How to get involved
00:22:54 - Our passions
00:26:38 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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In this episode of Dis-labled, Havva takes us through a day in her life and shares her experience of living with a brain injury.

With her trademark humour and honesty, Havva talks about family, friendships, daily routines, the things she enjoys most, and some of the challenges she faces. It's a warm, uplifting conversation that offers a genuine insight into her life and personality.

00:00:00 - Start
00:01:14 - Intro
00:01:59 - The Good News
00:06:35 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:07:54 - Discussion: A Day in My Life - Living with Brain Damage 
00:26:53 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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Community Focus artist Laurent Barsotti  has achieved something extraordinary.

In this special episode of Dis-labled, we follow Laurent’s journey from Community Focus to exhibiting at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026, one of the world’s most prestigious art exhibitions.

We begin at Royal Academy varnishing day, where Royal Academician Humphrey Ocean explains why Laurent’s London bus painting stood out from thousands of entries and earned a place in his room. We also hear from comedian Harry Hill, an admirer and collector of Laurent’s artwork.

In the second half of the programme, Laurent and his mum Chantal share the story behind this remarkable achievement. From developing confidence through art at Community Focus to seeing his work displayed on the walls of the Royal Academy, it’s an inspiring story of creativity, perseverance and passion.

Community Focus is an Arts Centre for children and adults with disabilities. We are based in the borough of Barnet, North London and offer a selection of creative and well-being activities for all ages.

00:00:16 - Intro
00:01:06 - Live from the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition 2026: Varnishing Day
00:03:04 - We speak to Humphrey Ocean RA
00:04:12 - We speak to comedian and fellow artist, Harry Hill
00:05:07 - Reflections on the day
00:05:53 - In the room we have...
00:06:12 - Laurent and his mum, Chantal join us in the studio
00:06:22 - Laurent answers questions from the Dis-labled crew
00:13:44 - Chantal answers questions from the Dis-labled crew
00:21:15 - What were the highlights of the day?
00:25:53 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

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In today’s episode, we’re returning to the topic of relationships and connection - from friendships and family, to dating. We discuss what makes us like someone, the things that might give us the ick, and having additional needs, the importance of independence in relationships. We also share advice for anyone who might feel nervous about dating or making new friends, especially when living with a disability.

00:00:00 - Start
00:01:14 - Intro
00:01:44 - The Good News
00:02:43 - The Good News: Laurent's Royal Academy Summer Show Journey
00:05:42 - Discussion: Putting Yourself Out There: Dating & Disability part 1
00:10:01 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:14:27 - Discussion: Putting Yourself Out There: Dating & Disability part 2
00:27:11 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot

Send us Fan Mail

In today’s episode, we’re talking all about relationships and connection – from friendships and family to dating, online connections, and everything in between. Plus, we hear part three of Alistair’s new series, “Pavement Guest,” where he talks about temperature control and global warming in his own unique style.

00:00:00 - Start
00:01:16 - Intro
00:01:42 - Good news
00:09:15 - Relationships discussion - The Different Ways We Connect part 1
00:13:21 - Pavement Guest by Alistair Scriven
00:18:52 - Relationships discussion - The Different Ways We Connect part 2
00:27:05 - Final Thoughts

Project Managers: Andrea Rai & Phil Powell
Editor: Phil Powell

Huge thanks to the National Lottery Reaching Communities Fund for supporting our Dis-labled podcast. Learn more about their amazing work: https://www.tnlcommunityfund.org.uk

All enquiries: [email protected]
Website: https://www.communityfocus.co.uk/

Theme Music: Rastko Rasic & the students of Community FocusOther Music: Jazzy Frenchy by ⁠⁠⁠Benjamin Tissot