A former GB Para discus thrower and shot putter from Penwortham has launched a disability awareness programme for schools and youth providers in Lancashire.

Claire Buckle shares her experiences of having Cerebral Palsy to educate young people in the See Me Not My CP programme.

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Claire is the founder of Ability Consultancy (NW) Ltd, an equality and diversity education and training business specialising in disability awareness.

She uses her own lived experiences to break down the barriers and stigma of disability. With her knowledge and passion for sport, and use of disability simulation equipment, she brings disability to life.

Read more: Retired Penwortham GB Para Athlete leading the way for disability awareness

Life hasn’t been easy for Claire, who suffered bullying throughout her childhood. This affected her confidence and self-esteem leading to low education attainment.

In 1997 Claire’s life changed when she discovered athletics. She found something that allowed her to take part on an equal playing field and started to be respected by others.

Since retiring from competing in athletics, Claire has experienced discrimination in society. By delivering sessions to young people, she hopes to change the mindset of future generations, so disabled people can live, learn, and earn like the rest of society.

Read more: New project in Preston aims to offer support for vulnerable disabled people during the pandemic

Claire said: “My Cerebral Palsy has never stopped me from living life. I have had many wonderful experiences, but the impact of bullying and discrimination will never leave me; instead it shaped the person I am today.

“If I can change the mindset of one person, I have done my job”.

The See Me Not My CP programme offers a wide range of sessions for young people. They range from inspirational talks and fun interactive activities, to delivering and training in inclusive and disability sport.

The programme is available to all schools in the North West and can be tailored to suit the school’s focus or priorities. Sessions can be delivered face-to-face when restrictions allow, or via Zoom.

Claire is also available to support disabled pupils to engage and take part in school sport. She will work with the school and pupil to address some of the barriers they may be experiencing.

See Me Not My CP launched on 29 March and is open for schools to book sessions from the start of the summer term.

For more details, contact Claire on claire@ability-consultancy.co.uk or 07799 770362.

Read more: See the latest Preston news and headlines

What do you think of the See Me Not My CP programme? Let us know in the comments.