March is supposedly CP awareness month truth be told I think it’s National CP Awareness Month in America but why not claim in in the UK? Therefore to mark this I decided to interview my friend Rachel Booth-Gardiner. Rachel, is a Lead Occupational Therapist, Blogger, intersectional Feminist and Disability Activist. She has 20 years experience of working within Acute, Rehabilitation & Forensic mental health settings, including 10 years of leadership roles managing occupational therapy teams within these settings.
I wanted to find out more about Rachel’s experience and if they’re similar or different to mine.
What was your experience studying with cerebral palsy?
Studying occupational therapy with cerebral palsy was a complex and often isolating experience. At university, I was determined to prove I could do everything independently, sometimes to my own detriment. I didn’t always know what reasonable adjustments I needed, and there was a lack of understanding about the barriers I faced. Fatigue was a major challenge, and placements were particularly difficult because of the physically demanding nature of the role.
Unlike some students who find supportive educators, I rarely experienced this. My placements were particularly challenging, both physically and mentally, and I often had to advocate for myself in environments that were not designed to accommodate my needs. Looking back, I now realise that no one is truly independent—we all rely on others in different ways, and that’s okay. Independence isn’t about doing everything alone; it’s about having the right support in place to enable you to do what matters to you. If I had understood that earlier, I would have been kinder to myself and more open to accepting the help I needed.
What are the barriers and facilitators you’ve had being an occupational therapist with cerebral palsy?
One of the biggest barriers I’ve faced is ableism—both in how others perceive my competence and in how I internalised those perceptions myself. Early in my career, I felt I had to overcompensate to prove I was just as capable as my peers, which led to burnout. The physical aspects of the role have also been a challenge, as not all workplaces have been willing to make the necessary adjustments. Navigating the assumptions of others—whether that’s questioning my ability to do the job or assuming I have a particular skillset because of my lived experience—has also been a recurring issue.
I also have dyslexia, which affects my cognitive processing, particularly with reading, writing, and memory. Since I have both right hemiplegia cerebral palsy and dyslexia, it’s possible that my dyslexia is influenced by the same neurological differences that affect my motor skills. This combination has meant I’ve had to be proactive in adapting my work methods and advocating for my needs.
Facilitators have included supportive colleagues and leaders who have valued my expertise beyond my physical abilities. Technology has played a huge role in breaking down barriers, allowing me to work efficiently and manage fatigue. Being part of networks like AbleOTUK has also been invaluable, as it’s provided a space to share experiences and advocate for change collectively.
What would you say to your younger self?
I’d tell my younger self that you don’t have to prove your worth by pushing yourself to exhaustion. It’s okay to ask for help, and needing adjustments doesn’t make you any less competent. You are not the problem—systems and attitudes that fail to accommodate disabled people are. The profession will evolve, and you will find a way to make it work for you.
Trust your instincts, be open about your needs, and don’t let other people’s doubts define your capabilities. You belong in this profession, and your experiences will shape the change you want to see. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to challenge ableism—you don’t have to accept it as just the way things are.
What advice would you give to colleagues working with occupational therapists with cerebral palsy?
First and foremost, listen to the individual and believe them when they tell you what they need. Cerebral palsy presents differently for everyone, and what works for one person may not work for another.
Avoid making assumptions—don’t assume someone can or can’t do something based on your perception of their condition. Be flexible and open to adaptations, and recognise that making reasonable adjustments isn’t about lowering standards; it’s about enabling someone to work to their full potential.
Most importantly, create a culture of inclusion where disabled occupational therapists feel comfortable being open about their needs without fear of judgment or stigma. Workplace accessibility should not be an afterthought—it should be embedded in how we design teams, workplaces, and learning environments.
I was going to add points in between questions but how can I when Rachel captures everything so perfectly! There’s so much I can relate to here regarding stigma, ableism and challenges on placement.
Over the next few months, I will be teaming up with Jessica Kingsley Publishers to highlight some of these issues. Watch out for further action.
Thank you for reading,
Georgia & Rachel x
