Do You See Me – Or Do You See My Chair?

This year’s Learning Disability Week (16–22 June 2025) invites us all to ask a powerful question: “Do you see me?”
 
Led by Mencap, the campaign is a call to action. It challenges society to confront assumptions, prejudices and barriers that people with a learning disability still face every day, particularly around visibility, voice, and value. It’s about recognising the whole person, not just their disability. It’s about listening, not just looking. And for those of us in clinical roles, it’s a reminder that dignity, inclusion and respect should be at the heart of every support decision we make.
 
At AJM Choice, we believe the right mobility support can change not only how someone moves – but how they’re seen.
 
When mobility becomes part of the picture
Not everyone with a learning disability will require mobility support. But for those who do, whether that’s a specialist wheelchair, a powered mobility system or postural support solution – the quality, fit and setup of that equipment can have a life-changing impact.
 
Too often, mobility aids are seen as functional tools rather than enablers of independence, participation, and identity. But the truth is, the right mobility solution doesn’t just support the body, it supports the whole person.
 
“Mobility should never define someone, it should reflect who they are. When we get it right, the chair fades into the background and their personality shines through,” says Michaela White, Clinical Therapist at AJM Choice.
 
Challenging stigma, supporting inclusion
The stigma around wheelchair use is still real. At AJM Choice, we regularly hear from service users who share stories of being overlooked or underestimated – not because of their disability, but because they use a chair.
 
They tell us about being spoken over, or spoken about, rather than spoken to. About assumptions that they cannot communicate or make choices for themselves – when in fact, with the right support, they absolutely can.
 
“It breaks my heart when I hear people say they don’t feel seen,” Michaela adds.
“No matter someone’s capacity or communication style, they should always be given the opportunity to speak for themselves. That’s what inclusion really means – not just being present but being seen and heard .”
 
Mobility solutions, when thoughtfully assessed and properly fitted, can play a key role in making that happen. When someone feels confident, supported and well-presented in their chair, they are more likely to engage, express themselves and take part in life on their own terms.
 
A clinically led, person-first approach
AJM Choice is proud to offer something rare in the private mobility market: a clinically led service, designed entirely around the person.
 
Our clinical therapists, like Michaela, work directly with service users, families and professionals to assess each individual’s needs. We look at physical presentation, postural goals, environmental context, long-term health considerations and crucially, how the individual wants to live their life.
 
We know that a poorly fitted chair or mobility solution can restrict not just movement, but confidence, social participation and emotional wellbeing. That’s why every solution we provide is underpinned by clinical insight, ensuring it’s not just suitable, but empowering.
 
Seeing beyond the chair
As we mark Learning Disability Week 2025, we’re proud to stand with others across the UK in challenging outdated assumptions and promoting inclusion. We’re proud to see the person before the chair. And we’re proud to help others do the same.
 
Because the question “Do you see me?” deserves only one answer:

Yes , we see you, we hear you, and we’re here to support you.