Suzie Birchwood
I am a wheelchair dancer and facilitator with a deep passion for inclusive practice, particularly through the lens of Universal Design. This approach ensures that environments, experiences, and opportunities are accessible to people of all abilities from the start, moving beyond the need for adaptations or specialised solutions and creating spaces where everyone can thrive.
My work is driven by the belief that the arts can be a powerful force for social change. I love collaborating with individuals and organisations to help them implement inclusive practices, ensuring that the creative world is accessible to all, at all levels. As a trainer and mentor, I guide others in embedding inclusivity into their work, and I often lead panel discussions and contribute to conferences, where I advocate for greater accessibility across the arts.
In addition to my professional work, I am proud to serve as co-chair of Stopgap Dance Company, Chair of Lila Dance, and as a parent governor. Balancing my roles as a mother, caregiver, and professional, I bring lived experience and a deep commitment to creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, can fully engage in the arts. My goal is to cultivate creative environments that empower and value everyone’s contributions.