Taking it to the people

Norfolk-based social entrepreneur and writer Robert Ashton is The People newspaper's new voice on national mental health issues. And Stuff Stigma, a think tank founded by the campaigner to challenge prejudice and promote well-being in Norfolk, has reached the semi-finals of the National Lottery Awards 2010. Now the man responsible for introducing the concept of the "human library" to Norfolk lets Disability Now check him out.

What's the best thing about being disabled?
I don't really see depression as a disability, it can actually be more of a gift.

What funny things get said about your impairment?
The greatest compliment I was ever paid was when someone said I was "both brilliant and annoying in equal amounts". I guess that's the joy of being both bright and slightly bonkers.

If you were Prime Minister, what would you do to improve things for disabled people?
If I were Prime Minister I'd encourage those in the public sector to throw out the rule book and listen to their intuition. I'd have people take responsibility, take risks and do what feels right - not blindly follow inflexible rules.

What invention could make your life better?
I'd like to see conversation reinvented; people making time to talk to each other, to understand each other's point of view. We all need to value people more.

What do you like most about blogging?
It's anarchic, free and unrestrained. We all have a voice and the opportunity to debate.

What do you like least about blogging?
As with any writing, less means more. Wordy blogs take ages to read. I'd limit all blogs to 200 words.

Who is your favourite disabled person?
I'd hate to differentiate on the basis of disability, but I do have a great admiration for Salvador Dali. He said: "The only difference between me and a madman is that I am not mad." That pretty much summarises my outlook on life.

Can you sum yourself up in ten words or less?
Unconventional, campaigner, sensitive, author, blogger and a budding dissident.

What makes you angry?
Prejudice makes me very angry. People need to look and listen before lobbing rocks.

Do you have any hidden talents?
It's not for me to say I have hidden talents. I am very happy being me. Talents are things others value and so depend upon how I can help them.