As part of Disability Pride Month, it’s important to share and understand the experiences of those within the community.

Mo Kingscote joined Avove in December 2022 and works as an HR Administrator in the People and Culture team.

“It’s a job I truly enjoy,” she says, “this is helped by the ongoing support I get from my manager and the wider company, who fully understand the disability I face daily, which in turn makes my working life easier.”

Outside of work, Mo enjoys time with her family, especially her grandchildren. One of their traditions is a family sports day twice a year. “Even if I’m just taking the pictures and videos and capturing memories,” Mo says.

Mo has been registered disabled for nine years, living with a broken coccyx, nerve damage and degeneration of the lower spine. She explains:

“Normal everyday sitting is not something I am able to do, as I am unable to sit or walk for long periods of time, which limits my day-to-day living and day-to-day activities. I am unable to take part in lots of activities that are taken for granted by able-bodied people. Like lots of people, my disability is not that visible to the outside world.”  

When asked what this year’s Disability Pride Month theme means to her, Mo is clear:

“It’s about people having a better understanding of the difficulties others face when they live with a disability. Awareness and understanding of the daily impact are so important. Things that people take for granted can be a real challenge for someone who’s disabled.” 

One of the barriers that Mo highlights is the need for “people to understand that not all disabilities are visible.”

Mo credits her manager and the Disability Community of Practice for creating a strong sense of support:

“I’ve had a very good experience at Avove. My disability is always considered, and I’ve never felt excluded. Being able to share with other disabled colleagues who understand and relate is valuable, and I’d encourage anyone, disabled or not, to join the COP.  It’s not just focused on work but also on supporting each other and finding ways to make things easier for each other.” 

Looking ahead, Mo hopes for continued progress:

“We’ve come a long way, but there’s always more we can do, especially when it comes to accessibility at events. The Executive team’s openness to our ideas is much appreciated.” 

Her advice to others starting their careers with a disability is:

“Be as open and honest as you feel comfortable, it really helps to share your disability with your manager and team so that they can support you. Investigate the company’s disability policy and see if there are any support groups they could join.” 

“Avove has made a real effort to support people with disabilities, evident by our community of practice to support this. I have not worked anywhere that has done this before.”