The Hidden Side of Financial AbuseBy Benny Shakes I’ve been thinking about writing this blog for quite some time. It’s a difficult subject, but I think it’s something we need to talk about more openly. As disabled people, we want the same things as everybody else. Love, friendship, relationships, independence and, most importantly, respect. But…

Well, it’s been another busy few weeks in Benny’s world! Where do I begin? Let’s start with something positive. Social Care – Are Things Finally Going to Change? There’s been more talk from the government about helping disabled and elderly people get the care they deserve. And I’m pleased they’re having these conversations. But here’s…

Well, it’s been another crazy week in Benny’s world! And before I go and get my fish and chips, I thought I’d write another little blog. Because there’s been quite a bit happening this week, and it’s got me thinking about what it really means to be disabled, independent and able to work. We’ve had…

Well, here we go again. Disabled people are in the papers. This time, The Telegraph has published an article with the headline: “How having a disability became cool.” Really? I’ve been disabled all my life. I can tell you now, disability isn’t a fashion trend. I’m proud to be disabled. I’m proud of who I…

I’m disabled. It wasn’t my fault. I was born with cerebral palsy. And if you became disabled because of an accident, an illness or a disease, that wasn’t your fault either. Yet sometimes it feels like disabled people are constantly being asked to apologise for existing. We work. We try our best. Some disabled people…

Well, I’m back from the Edinburgh Fringe, and boy, what a Fringe it was! Over the month, I managed to do 60 shows. Now, I know quite a few of my comedy buddies did more than that, but 60 was what my body could handle, and I’m bloody proud of it. One of my favourite…

We finished Slugageddon on the 16th, and what a joy it’s been bringing our new children’s show to Edinburgh. We’ve learnt so much from doing the show here. We’ve had children and families joining in, we’ve had some fantastic feedback, and we’ve even come away having made a little bit of money! Anyone who knows…

I’ve met some incredible people, performed loads, laughed loads, and yes… I’ve already been accused of being drunk several times, by everyone from bouncers to members of the public! 😂 But that’s okay. That’s part of why I do what I do — make people laugh while educating people about disability at the same time.…

Well everyone, it’s now the 1st of August, and wow… what a July we’ve had! There have been plenty of highs and a few lows, but one thing I’m really proud of is that Slugageddon is finally where I want it to be. I’m so excited to be taking it to the Edinburgh Fringe this…

Every July I spend a bit of time reflecting on what it means to be disabled. Not because someone tells me to, but because it’s a chance to look back at the journey and realise just how far I’ve come. I can honestly say this: I’m proud to be disabled. Not because it’s easy—it isn’t.…