West Midlands mother builds digital platform for carers to connect
Digital platform, Blue Badgers, aims to celebrate disability and carer communities through connection and rewards
A West Midlands mother has launched a new digital platform inspired by her experience of caring for her son with a rare genetic condition.
Stephanie Jackson created Blue Badgers, an interactive app designed to connect disabled people and unpaid carers while offering rewards and accessible venue information.
Stephanie was inspired to create the platform through her own experience caring for her eldest son Ben, who is one of around 40 people worldwide diagnosed with You-Hoover-Fong Syndrome.
The family waited eight years for medical professionals to diagnose Ben with You-Hoover-Fong Syndrome which significantly limits his ability to move, learn and interact with the world around him.
Stephanie said: "When a child has complex needs and can’t care for themselves, there’s no such thing as an 'off' moment.
"Being a mum is incredibly rewarding, but some days are emotionally exhausting. Life can feel both isolating and relentlessly hectic."
The digital platform, Blue Badgers, aims to tackle loneliness and isolation among carers by helping users find accessible, carer-friendly venues through an interactive map.
The goal is to turn the often-stressful task of planning a day out into something simple, fun, and enjoyable for carers and those with disabilities.
Stephanie said: “Caring can be a very lonely experience, and the energy it takes just to get information or have your voice heard is exhausting.
“I want Blue Badgers to be purposely joyful and celebratory. The response has been overwhelming - businesses are eager to learn, and families are thrilled to finally have a platform focused on them.”
Stephanie added: "The disability and carer community holds extraordinary strength, resilience and talent.
"Caring isn’t a part-time role - it's 24/7, regardless of whether you are currently standing next to the person you care for. Unpaid carers give extraordinary amounts of time, energy and compassion without recognition or reward and this platform can combat that."