A fundraising fashion show is set to return to London this month, starring spinal cord injury survivors in a bid to redefine what it means to take on the runway.
This year’s edition of the Front Row fashion show will take place on the evening of September 24, in the historic Battersea Arts Centre in South London.
Hosted by Back Up, a UK charity that supports individuals with spinal cord injuries, the show plans to celebrate inclusive and adaptive fashion designs.
Back Up’s CEO, Abigail Lock, said: “Front Row is a celebration of inclusivity and style, and we’re thrilled to have leading adaptive fashion designers showcasing their creations.
“More than just a fashion show, the event highlights the importance of representation and demonstrates what’s possible after spinal cord injury.”
The funds raised by the ticketed event will support Back Up’s continued work to support individuals affected by spinal cord injuries and provide vital services.
Back Up highlights that at any time, anyone, anywhere can be affected by a spinal cord injury.
Their mission is to support those individuals through providing services such as wheelchair skills training, mentoring and empower them to live to their full potential.
Research suggests the number of people suffering from a spinal cord injury in the UK has risen to roughly 105,000 in recent years.
With estimates suggesting that there are roughly 4,400 new cases each year, this translates to someone becoming paralysed every two hours.
After suffering a spinal cord injury at the age of 18, Merryn Thomas, now 34, praises the significant support services she received from Back Up in her recovery.
Thomas said: “I went on a residential wheelchair skills course that massively improved my confidence, enabled me to go to university and travel solo, despite being a full-time wheelchair user.
“Further down the line, I also received support through their employment skills service and have been able to build a career doing something I love.”
Thomas credits the organisation for changing her life and now chooses to give back to them by volunteering as part of the organising committee for Front Row.
She said: It’s such a fantastic, fun event that I feel so privileged to be a part of.
“I just know how much any money raised can help others who have had similar experiences to me.”
This year’s show has been carefully curated by fashion consultant Lisa Wisdom and promises a diverse line-up of models, including several survivors.
Wisdom said: “The models I work with each year are genuinely inspiring.
“Seeing their confidence shine on the catwalk is incredibly special, and it’s also a powerful reminder of the life-changing impact Back Up has had through its support.”
Among those set to take to the stage during the event is actor George Robinson, most known for playing Issac Goodwin in the Netflix hit series, Sex Education.
Set to take place just after London’s fashion week, Front Row aims to put adaptable and inclusive fashion directly in the spotlight and raise funds for Back Up’s vital work.
Tickets for Front Row are still available for purchase. In addition to the fashion show, all tickets include a welcome drink and a large slice of pizza.
Featured image credit: Back Up
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