We are launching our What Lies Beneath campaign to increase awareness about the medical accessories people live with and care for day to day. It is allied to the Not All Disabilities Are Visible movement associated with multiple charities and individuals.
We’ve put together a double sided information card to promote awareness about the existence of hidden medical accessories, as well as basic information about the different medical appliances and devices, that people may have. Its handy business card size, means single or multiple cards can be carried around in a bag or wallet and used if and when an occasion arises. We’ve also produced an A4 poster with the same information, for places where a static sheet or leaflet would be useful. Both can be downloaded by clicking on the relevant PDF below.
The card and leaflet are particularly aimed at those situations where those of us with hidden accessories can be negatively appraised, challenged or simply misunderstood. Using disabled facilities is a frequent context where this can occur, but there are also many other times when greater understanding and awareness would be helpful. It can be difficult in the moment to know what to say. Sometimes it is just a shake of the head and disapproving look we receive. Those with medical accessories should not have to feel they need give personal information to explain themselves, unless they want to. The recipient will not know which medical appliance / device you have. The card quietly asks others to reappraise the situation, while you go on your way. The front side of the card can also be used alone if preferred. We hope that the recipients understanding will then be carried forward to future situations.
As usual we would like to hear from you, so please contact us if you would like to give feedback about your use of the card.
Medical Accessories Support Trust 