Able Magazine have been media partners with the National Diversity Awards since 2013 and were again honoured to be part of the ceremony at Friday’s event in the magnificent Anglican cathedral in Liverpool.

Able Magazine editor, Tom Jamison, was joined on stage by former footballer and Sky pundit, Chris Kamara, to present the Positive Role Model for Disability Award to young disability campaigner, Myles Sketchley.

Myles received the award for his tireless campaigning efforts for young people with disabilities. Myles is youth ambassador for Strongbones, a charity that helps families and children with serious bone conditions, not dissimilar to those experienced by Myles himself who has undergone major spinal surgery and a procedure to remove his hips, and lives with Schizencephaly, a rare brain condition. Nevertheless, this incredible individual has travelled across Europe compiling a guide to wheelchair accessible attractions and runs a bravery award for children who are unwell.

Tom Jamison said: “Myles is fantastic example of a young person that refuses to be defined by his disability. His campaigning activities have already impressed and I think he’s clearly going to have a significant impact in the future.”

Later on in the evening the Community Organisation Award for Disability was scooped by The Josephine & Jack Project, who by using life-size, anatomical cloth figures, take an innovative approach to advising and discussing topics such as health and wellbeing, relationships, sex and sexuality among people with learning disabilities.

The ceremony, which was also live streamed through ITV News’ YouTube channel, has been described as the ‘Golden Globes of the diversity world’ among attendees. 

www.strongbones.org.uk

www.nationaldiversityawards.co.uk