Presenting & Talking About Disability
This newly developed resource has been developed to give presenters concepts to think about when writing presentations, including images, stories and narratives.
This version was last been updated in Nov 2025. We welcome suggestions and additions to what we hope to be a living document.
General Overview
Our understanding of childhood-onset disabilities like cerebral palsy (CP) continues to evolve with advances in science and technology, as well as the voices of people and families who live with these conditions. Modern presentations should reflect up-to-date perspectives on disability language, inclusive imagery, and the often under-reported realities of experiences like medical trauma. This guide offers reflective prompts to help presenters prepare content respectfully and thoughtfully.
Using Images and Personal Stories
- Only use personal photos or case examples with clear consent. Ensure the person or family understands what will be shown, why, and who the audience is.
- Reconfirm or update consent if the person’s circumstances or the audience have changed (e.g., the child in the photo is now an adult).
- Choose images that illustrate the point without exposing unnecessary private details.
- Ask: if the person were in the audience, would they be comfortable with what is shown and said?
- Avoid showing vulnerable moments or unnecessary body details unless essential for context.
- Consider whether a diagram could replace a personal image.
- Ensure stories and images reflect the person as a whole, not just their diagnosis or medical journey.
- Avoid extremes of pity or heroism; aim for balanced and human portrayals.
- Use diverse, inclusive, and accessible imagery (e.g., captions, high contrast, alt text).
Understanding Your Audience and Sensitive Content
- Members of your audience may have lived experience or professional familiarity with disability.
- Identify content that might be distressing (e.g., medical trauma, emergency events, mental health challenges).
- Provide content or trigger warnings for potentially distressing material.
- When presenting difficult information, explain why it’s included and the broader context.
- Avoid showing someone only at their worst moment; present their full story.
- Use strength-based and respectful narratives rather than tragedy or inspiration tropes.
- Check if the details you’re sharing are appropriate for the audience and context.
Guiding Questions for Presenters
- Is this personal story or photo essential to my message?
- What insight does this story add beyond general facts?
- Am I describing the person in a respectful, person-centred way?
- What impression will the audience take away from this example?
- Are my words and visuals strength-based and free from pity or stigma?
- Do I have permission to share this material, and have I honoured its limits?
Final Thoughts
Presenting about disability thoughtfully takes ongoing effort. You may not have time to update everything, but small actions—like adding a content warning or checking consent—matter. Be transparent about permissions and open to feedback. Treat this as a living process and refine your materials over time to ensure your presentations are inclusive, ethical, and respectful.