Harriet’s story: Rebuilding independence after spinal cord injury
3 February 2026
Meet Harriet:
- Lives in Cambridgeshire
- Represented Team GB in archery
- Completed a Master’s Degree researching how disability is portrayed in the media
Harriet sustained a spinal cord injury after developing an infection at the age of nine. “At first I could walk using sticks, but in 2018 I became a full-time wheelchair user. I now have a T7 injury and have limited movement below my chest.”
After receiving her diagnosis, she found it difficult to connect with others. “It was hard to make friends – a lot of people didn’t accept me or they didn’t want to be my friend because I was disabled.”
In 2025 she joined a physiotherapy group, where she first heard about Back Up. “Another member of the group told me about the brilliant guidance she had received from the charity, so I did some research and signed up for the What Next? course.”
“Joining the What Next? programme helped me discover a world of support! I learned which organisations to approach about different aspects of spinal cord injury, and it opened my eyes to the range of services that Back Up offers.”
After that, she felt encouraged to register for our Skills for Work course. “I was struggling to find employment and needed guidance about navigating the job market. Through the programme I was offered a placement at Savills, where I got to shadow their Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Team – that was really interesting.”
Later, Harriet also took part in our Skills for Independence course, which helped her rebuild her confidence. “The course gave me my voice back. I learned to speak up for myself and be clear about what I needed, rather than just going along with what others thought best.”
During the residential, she became part of a supportive community. “I found my tribe, the community I’d been longing for. We all understood each other’s experiences and they accepted me for who I am. We still have a group chat now where we share our latest progress and challenges – that’s a godsend!”
She also participated in wheelchair skills training throughout the week. “I knew quite a lot of wheelchair skills before the course, but the sessions helped me refine my techniques. I could then share what I learned with others, helping them develop new skills like back wheel balancing and carrying hot drinks. It was amazing to work together and grow as a group.”
Following the course, she felt empowered to become a Back Up wheelchair skills trainer. “When I first got my chair, I wasn’t taught any wheelchair skills. I had to learn by trial and error, and it was hard. I didn’t want anyone else to go through that and I enjoyed helping others on the Skills for Independence course, so I decided to become an instructor.”
“I went on the Train the Trainer weekend in Liverpool. I learned how to support others and I got to develop my own wheelchair skills further, discovering how to go down multiple steps and travel on public transport. Now I feel ready to support people affected by spinal cord injury both in hospital and on courses, helping them believe in themselves and broaden their horizons.”
Reflecting on her journey, Harriet says, “You’ve got to grab life with both hands. Your wheelchair doesn’t define you and Back Up can help you rebuild your hope and independence. Just seize the day and go for it!”
