An Inspirational Space for Individuals & Families
Living with Disability
Who We Are
The Ashlie Project is based on the lived experience of Michael and Jacquie Parkes.
After nearly three years of marriage, and severe marital challenges, Michael received a late diagnosis of Asperger's Syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. Following this, we embarked
on a continuing journey of change, healing and development.
Together we are parents to two effervescent children, both of whom suffered serious complications at birth and one of whom has gone on to experience health problems and learning difficulties.
It has a been a tough journey. But as a family we thrive on hope and love with perseverance,
reaping the rewards of transformation and positivity along the way.
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We created this resource in 2017 as a safe space to support others
either already on, or facing, a similar journey.
Our Story
Our Name
This project is named after one of our children and references the ash tree - a living symbol of hope and longevity.
The ash tree bears both lilac flowers and the olive fruit, reflecting beauty and sustenance.
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We have launched The Ashlie Project to help others find beauty in their own lives and to be sustained by the encouragement of others while experiencing the challenges of disability and maternity trauma.
Our Faith
Without hesitation, we credit Jesus Christ for the strength, wisdom and healing we have gained along our journey. Our lives are evidence that His gospel of good news in a broken world is true.
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'For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes...' Romans 1:16
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However, this service is not restricted to those who share our faith; we welcome visitors and members of all creeds and walks of life.
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To learn more about faith in Jesus Christ,
please visit click on our Inspiration menu tab.
Statement of Constitution
1. NAME, STRUCTURE & PURPOSE
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The name of this service is The Ashlie Project, which is an online-based resource. The project exists for the purpose of fulfilling its aims, which are set by Michael and Jacquie Parkes, as outlined below for the benefit of all service users. Michael and Jacquie solely retain the right to amend current aims and introduce new aims as well as visual and written materials, services, activities and events for The Ashlie Project.
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2. AIMS
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The Ashlie Project aims to fulfil the following for all individuals and families accessing our services who are living with disability and maternity trauma:
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encourage self-advocacy
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support families as a whole
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promote self care
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provide resources
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facilitate community
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learn from lived experience
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We achieve these through our range of services as outlined on the website menu, and any additional activities or events.
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3. ETHOS
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Disability
We denounce ableism according to its basic definition and thus reject societal behaviours and attitudes which devalue the potential of disabled people (including those pre-born) and/or which impede their progression in any area of society. However, we do not consider it abelist to recognise and acknowledge the inherent limitations caused by disability and the subsequent challenges experienced by disabled people and their loved ones. We accept the UK's legal definition of disability, which is that disability results in physical and/or mental impairment that is chronic and more than minor or trivial, resulting in substantial disadvantage in various ways. Our service is therefore a safe space to support individuals and families experiencing such challenges.
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Maternity Trauma
Our maternity trauma support is focused on women who have been negatively affected mentally, emotionally, reproductively or relationally through the experience of pregnancy, delivery and parenting. Our project exists to promote maternity recovery, encourage positivity in motherhood, and to affirm womanhood.
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Abortion
Women who have terminated pregnancies for any reason and at any stage of gestation, and who have suffered mentally/emotionally and/or physically from the experience, are invited to benefit from our maternity trauma support. For more information regarding abortion support and information, please see the following links:
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Post Abortion Support for Everyone (PASE)
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4. FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION
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Service users who access The Ashlie Project's website, services, activities, events and associated publications are advised that these are the product of Michael and Jacquie's lived experience. The views, terminologies, and references used throughout express our thoughts, beliefs, and Christian faith as entitled under Articles 9 and 10 of the Human Rights Act 1998. These will not be removed or revised in response to those expressing or having opposing opinions or beliefs.
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5. EQUALITY
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In accordance with the Equality Act 2010, the Ashlie Project will not discriminate on the grounds of sex, race (including colour, ethnic or national origin), sexual orientation, disability, gender reassignment, religious or political belief, pregnancy or maternity, marital status or age.
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Service users are advised that differences of opinion or beliefs which are expressed will not automatically be deemed as discrimination. In order to facilitate open discussion, freedom of expression for all service users will be facilitated in accordance with the aforementioned human rights legislation. However, any intentionally argumentative/disrespectful remarks or offensive conduct will not be permitted and may result in restricted access to services/activities, membership suspension or membership termination.
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6. COMMUNITY MEMBERSHIP
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Community membership exists in the form of a mailing list and optional WhatsApp group. The purpose of membership is solely to facilitate communication and social engagement in a positive and effective manner. Membership is free.
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Membership is open to anyone who:
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is aged 18 and over
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is personally disabled or cares for someone disabled
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is personally affected by maternity trauma or cares for someone affected
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agrees to comply in full with the Statement of Constitution and, in particular, fully supports the aims and ethos of The Ashlie Project
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Membership is indefinite and starts from the time of confirmation following online registration.
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Scope of Membership
Membership scope of permitted activity will include -
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Participation in any service, activity or event by The Ashlie Project
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Submission of topics for written, video, or event discussion by The Ashlie Project
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Blog composition and comments as permitted by The Ashlie Project
Data Protection
The Ashlie Project will retain personal details as provided by members for the duration of membership. Members agree to receive marketing and communication by email from The Ashlie Project regarding general updates and information, services, publications and events. Membership personal details will not be shared with third parties.
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Membership Termination
Members may resign at any time via email to admin@theashlieproject.com. Personal details will be removed upon resignation. Members can be terminated by The Ashlie Project at any time.
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7. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY​
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The Ashlie Project's name, website written content, website logos and original images/graphics, and all associated marketing material for services/activities are the intellectual property of Michael and Jacquie Parkes and may not be duplicated or used by visitors or members for any purpose without written permission. Misuse of our intellectual property may result in legal prosecution.
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Service users who post blogs or comments on our website retain copyright of their submitted content. However, by posting on our website you give license to us for use of your contribution for display, marketing, duplication, and adaptation where appropriate and reasonable.