Amidst the swirl of flags, music, and community spirit, one voice rang out—not in words, but in joyful movement, radiant smiles, and the unmistakable rhythm of a tambourine.

That voice belongs to J.

And this year, through Beltane, Common Riding, beach days, and brass bands, J declared: I am here.

J is a vibrant individual who communicates through expressive non-verbal cues such as swaying, flapping, smiling, and vocalising joy.

Despite living with profound learning disabilities, J’s personality shines through his actions and interactions. He has a deep appreciation for music, rhythm, and sensory experiences, as seen in his spontaneous tambourine performances and his joyful participation in community events like the Peebles Beltane Festival and Selkirk Common Riding.

J’s enthusiasm is contagious, whether he’s dancing at a disco, waving pom-poms during a parade, or stretching out his arms and laughing in the sea.

His ability to connect with others, even without words, is remarkable. He thrives in environments that are adapted to his needs, allowing him to fully engage and express himself.

J’s presence brings joy and inclusivity to every space he enters, making him a cherished part of his community. As his support worker, I’ve come to understand his language, his preferences, and his challenges.

I’ve learned to interpret his cues, adapt environments, and advocate for his right to be seen, heard, and celebrated.

At Peebles Beltane Festival, J wasn’t just a spectator—he was a performer. When the Rugby Club dancers burst into their neon “Decades of Now That’s What I Call Music” routine, J pulled out his tambourine and joined in, captivating the crowd with his spontaneous rhythm.

Later, he was invited through the barriers to meet the Y.M. dancers, his joy mirrored in their warm embrace and shared photographs. These weren’t just moments of inclusion—they were moments of recognition. J was seen.

At Selkirk Common Riding, J was greeted by the town’s Standard Bearer, who knelt beside him and gifted him red and blue pom-poms. J waved them proudly as the brass band played.

We walked with the procession, J swaying in time to the music, absorbing the sensory richness of the day —the colours, the cheers, the melodies. J stood at the core of the celebration, fully present and embraced.

At the Selkirk Rugby Club disco, J was drawn to the sensory explosion of the lights and music.

He danced like no one was watching, surrounded by children who welcomed him into their circle.

His movements—rocking, twirling, smiling—spoke volumes.

When he was awarded a teddy bear for his dancing, his joy lit up the room. It was a moment of pure celebration, not just of J’s presence, but of his impact.

On a recent beach trip, J’s joy was uncontainable. From the rhythmic click-clack of the train to the splash of the waves, every moment was a sensory delight.

Using a Crusader wheelchair, we ventured into the sea together.

J stretched out his arms and legs, laughing as the water danced around him.

The collage we created—“You can’t go and not have a paddle”—is more than a memory.

It’s a declaration: I am here, living fully.

J’s journey isn’t without challenges. He requires support with mobility, communication, and sensory regulation.

But with the right strategies—visual sensory-friendly environments—he thrives. J’s team have worked to ensure his experiences are meaningful, adapting activities, interpreting his non-verbal cues, and advocating for his inclusion.

Whether it’s helping him onto the dance floor or into the sea, our role is to say: You belong here. We Are Here… Together

This year’s theme, “I Am Here,” is more than a slogan. It’s a call to action. It asks us to recognise the voices that aren’t always heard, the joy that isn’t always understood, and the people who bring colour, rhythm, and heart to our communities.

J is one of those people. And I’m proud to walk beside him, to amplify his joy, and to say to the world: We are here.