Self-Defence and P.E.E.Ps for People with Disabilities

In light of the recent events in Uvalde, and after seeing a post on Instagram on the subject, I was compelled to write my thoughts about it, because it made me really think.

Imagine being an amputee, running for your life, trying to escape from a gunman?

What about the blind?

What if the blind had a guide dog and the guide dog got shot?

What if the venue is no where near wheelchair accessible?

Do we need to manufacture bulletproof wheelchairs nowadays?

When I was in high school, in Bermuda, we had lockdowns in the midst of school fights. But according to my research, Bermuda has nothing in place.

As a wheelchair user, I was given a Personal Emergency Evacuation Plan (P.E.E.P) in University for fire drills, in the UK. I’ve also had an evacuation plan while on a job placement in England, which was successful.

https://fb.watch/dfEbtVVhVo/

It looks like America has something in place, but is this effective? Everyone’s right to life shall be protected by law. No one shall be deprived of his life intentionally save in the execution of a sentence of a court following his conviction of a crime for which the penalty is provided by law.

Neglecting to make reasonable adjustments goes against ones’ ‘right to life’. Not much seems to be in place by way of safety legislation. However, as an alternative, there is Martial Arts and carrying a gun for self-defence.

Does this help?

Don’t our lives matter too?

FOOD FOR THOUGHT!

Disability Martial Arts Association: http://www.disabilitymartialartsassociation.co.uk/introducing_you_to_the_disabilit.htm

Wheelchair Self-Defence: https://www.combat-academy.co.uk/wheelchair-self-defence/

Human Rights Act 1998: https://www.equalityhumanrights.com/en/human-rights-act/article-2-right-life#:~:text=1.,penalty%20is%20provided%20by%20law.

https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2022/05/25/executive-order-on-advancing-effective-accountable-policing-and-criminal-justice-practices-to-enhance-public-trust-and-public-safety/

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uks-strict-gun-laws-strengthened-with-new-medical-arrangements

https://www.gov.uk/reasonable-force-against-intruders

https://www.wheelpower.org.uk/sports/karate?gclid=Cj0KCQjw-daUBhCIARIsALbkjSYPWFTZb2CUmXRiwQx6fj62zYLEdMVGMUDvn7reTNdeWG1cCgANbyUaAiClEALw_wcB

2 thoughts on “Self-Defence and P.E.E.Ps for People with Disabilities

About Daniella-Jade Lowe

Hello, My name is Daniella Jade Lowe. I am a PURSUN researcher and I am working on marketing myself as an Accessibility Consultant. Journalism and Politics are my passion. I have a BA degree in History and Politics. What type of disability do you have? At birth, I was diagnosed with Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus which are neurological conditions. As a result, I use a wheelchair for mobility. What is disability to you? The only disability is a bad attitude. I have a disability. It doesn’t completely define me; it just enhances me in a way which differentiates and strengthens me. My disability should be viewed as an ability: to see the world in a different way. I don’t really like the term because sometimes it indirectly implies someone is dysfunctional or helpless. The most important thing is to never make assumptions. Someone with a disability can be very, physically, fit and strong, highly intelligent and articulate. What has been your experience from the time you remember till now? - positive and negative experiences. My life as a wheelchair user has been generally okay. Wheelchair Accessibility is frustrating. I was teased a little in school. Other than that, life is great. How do you cope with: -daily activities - your disability, do you have times when you are down - people's reactions towards you. I have carers, a Social worker, District Nurses, a GP, and extended family in this country. I am also in contact with a local disability charity in Yorkshire. I also have a friendly landlord. How do you keep yourself motivated? I must stay organised and practice good time management. I also prioritise my plans. What is your word or advice - to those with disabilities? - to the society Don’t let people put you in a box. You have a voice, use it. 10. Tell us about your platforms if you have any- Blog: The View from Where I Sit Facebook: Daniella Jade Lowe Instagram: @daniellajadelowe/@theviewfromwheresitblog Thank you!