Access Ambassador Gracie Mellalieu is featured in the Children in Wales Summer magazine, celebrating her work in promoting accessibility and inclusion for disabled young people across Wales.
The edition, titled “Where Every Child Belongs: Diversity and Inclusion in Practice,” highlights inspiring contributions from across Wales, including a foreword by Cabinet Secretary for Social Justice, Jane Hutt. Among those recognised is Gracie, one of PIWS’ most active and inspiring Access Ambassadors.
Gracie, an 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Mynydd Isa, lives with Morquio syndrome — a rare condition that affects her mobility and overall health. Despite the challenges she faces, she is using her lived experience to influence positive change. Through her role as an Access Ambassador for PIWS, Gracie visits venues across Wales, gives honest accessibility feedback, and helps businesses and families understand what real inclusion looks like.
The article also explores Gracie’s involvement in launching the new bilingual Access Card, developed by Nimbus Disability and supported by North Wales Police and North Wales Together. This card uses simple symbols to help disabled individuals communicate their access needs without having to repeatedly explain themselves.
We’re incredibly proud to see Gracie’s story featured in this important publication, which aligns so closely with our mission at PIWS to create a more accessible Wales.
To get involved in future editions or find out more, contact: membership@childreninwales.org.uk
