Our strategy
Shaped by 3,000 people
We spoke to 3,000 people connected to Sense. They told us that right now, too many disabled people with complex needs are held back by barriers in society. Systems that do not listen. Services that do not fit. Attitudes that underestimate what people want and can do.
From finding the right nursery to accessing school, health and care, or benefits, far too much is harder than it should be.
People told us they want Sense to do more to change this. This strategy is how we’ll do it.
The future we’re building
We want a future where disabled people with complex needs have power, choice and control at every stage of life.
A future where support works. Systems join up. Families no longer struggle alone. Where every disabled child with complex needs has an equal chance to dream, learn and grow.
This change will be led by disabled people with complex needs and built together, working alongside them.
“I want to be included, to be listened to.”
Emma, Sense expert by experience
Our three goals to get there
1. In control
Together we’ll break down the barriers that stop disabled people with complex needs living life their way.
That means more choice over decisions, better access to technology and support, and greater freedom over where and how people live.
We want disabled people with complex needs living in their own homes to be the norm, with outdated models of care left behind.
2. Included
Together we’ll break down the barriers that stop disabled people with complex needs and their families being included and valued.
That means amplifying voices, shifting power and challenging the systems and attitudes that exclude people.
We want a society shaped by the people too often left out of it.
3. Independent
Together we’ll break down the barriers that stop disabled people with complex needs living full, joyful lives.
That means better access to health, care, connection and opportunities, with support that is personalised, creative and bold.
It also means campaigning for a health and care system that values living well, not simply getting through the day.
“The casual mocking needs to stop, and only society can make the change.”
Jonathan, parent carer
How we’ll get there
For more than 70 years, Sense has built deep expertise, trust and reach across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
But we know we will need to work differently to make our new strategy happen. That’s why we’ve set out our priorities for the next three years in this plan.
“I want to wake up in the morning and know that if I wasn’t here, my child will still have a future where she is loved and supported to be herself. We just live everyday minute by minute, form by form right now.”
Nina, parent carer
Join us
Be part of the change. Help build a world without limits for every disabled person with complex needs.
By signing up to our weekly emails, we’ll let you know more about our work and other ways you can help, including how you can volunteer, make a donation, or support our campaigns.