In these collection of videos, self-advocates talk about their experiences of going into hospital or using an NHS service.
In this powerful video, self-advocates come together to share why speaking up matters—especially for people with a learning disability and autistic people. You’ll hear from Rae, Jake, Shenah, Seb, Ashley, Hilda, and others as they explain why it’s so important to be listened to in healthcare and beyond. Whether it’s about getting the right care, being treated with respect, or just having their experiences acknowledged, their message is clear. When people with lived experience are involved in shaping services—especially in the NHS—it leads to better, more accessible, and more compassionate care for everyone.
In this video, Ian opens up about his experience receiving treatment for a heart condition at London Guy’s Hospital. He shares how the kindness of doctors and nurses, and the support of his mum, made all the difference. This is more than a medical story—it’s about feeling safe, respected, and understood. Ian’s story is part of a wider series lifting up real patient voices from the NHS, and celebrating what good healthcare looks like.
Rae speaks about her epilepsy seizure outside a friend’s house. In this short video, Rae talks about how the NHS responded swiftly to her emergency—and how the experience left a lasting impact. This personal story sheds light on what it’s like to rely on emergency services, and why the people behind the care make all the difference. Like, comment, and share to spread awareness of the importance of accessible healthcare.
In this video, Jake shares what made his hospital visits and appointments feel safe and supportive. With the help of his sister Evie—who supports him as his power of attorney—Jake talks about how having things explained clearly and being treated with respect made all the difference. Good care isn’t just about treatment. It’s about support, clear communication, and truly listening to the person with the disability—because they know what works best for them. Jake’s story reminds us that a more accessible NHS is a stronger NHS.
In this video, Imogen shares what happened when she got really sick with pneumonia. She talks about sitting in the waiting room, barely able to respond, and how her mum stepped in to speak for her. Thankfully, the doctor took her mum seriously and got Imogen the tests and care she needed—without making her wait. It’s a powerful story about being heard, being looked after, and getting reasonable adjustments.
In this video, Ashley shares what it was like to stay overnight in a hospital as someone with autism and a learning disability. She talks about how the staff really listened to her, respected her needs, and made her feel safe and cared for throughout her stay. The NHS staff made her feel calm by chatting about her diamond art, and making sure her wishes were respected—made a big difference. Ashley’s story shows why reasonable adjustments matter.
In this video, Hilda reflects on two different hospital stays. One experience, from Ipswich Hospital, the other, at West Suffolk Hospital. Hilda’s story is now being used as a training resource to help doctors, nurses, and hospital teams understand what it feels like to be on the other side of care—especially for people with learning disabilities. Hilda’s voice reminds us that every experience matters, and listening to people’s stories—both the good and the bad—can lead to better, kinder care for everyone.
In this video, Seb shares what it was like to attend an NHS appointment as someone with a learning disability. He explains how things only started to improve when his mum came with him and helped him speak up. But here’s the important part: it shouldn’t take a family carer or support worker for someone like Seb to be heard. Everyone deserves to have their voice respected and their needs understood—no matter how they communicate. Seb’s story is a reminder that people with disabilities often need a little more time, patience, and support from healthcare professionals—and that truly inclusive care means really listening, not rushing.
In this uplifting video, Shenah shares what made her hospital visit feel so positive. From the moment she arrived, the staff explained everything clearly—step by step—so she knew exactly what to expect. They were kind, respectful, and made sure she was included in every part of the process. Shenah talks about how her rights were respected, how reasonable adjustments were made, and how having friendly staff who listened made all the difference. It’s a great reminder that good care isn’t just about what’s done—it’s about how it’s done. When healthcare is communicated clearly and delivered with kindness, it builds trust and confidence.
