Back Up's London fashion show

Rebecca Wallersteiner takes her seat on the front row of a fashion show with a difference celebrating adaptive fashion for people affected by spinal cord injury, in support of the Back Up charity, at London Fashion Week 2026. She talks to actor George Robinson before he hits the runway.

Most of us think more about what to have for breakfast each morning and the busy day ahead in our hospital roles, than putting on our clothes. However, for people affected by spinal cord injury, such as injured servicemen and women, and others injured in accidents, getting dressed can present an everyday challenge. Hot on the heels of London Fashion Week, a fashion show with a difference celebrates adaptive and inclusive fashion, suitable for people with spinal injuries, to raise funds to support the charity Back Up’s work. Curated by fashion consultant Lisa Wisdom the show, held at London’s Battersea Arts Centre, featured a diverse line-up of models, including individuals with spinal cord injuries to raise funds to support the charity Back Up’s work to empower people affected by spinal cord injury, build confidence and live life to the full. Some of the models were wheelchair users, while others used mobility aids. Amongst the supermodels was actor George Robinson, known for his role in the dystopian drama Silo and hit Netflix series Sex Education, who was paralysed in a rugby accident while on a school rugby tour in South Africa, aged just 17.

George Robinson says, “Back Up supported me and my family after my spinal cord injury, with confidence-boosting courses and mentoring, so it’s a charity that means a great deal to me personally. I was delighted to be asked to return to model at the Front Row Fashion Show, which is always such a positive celebration of confidence, inclusion and individuality. The charity’s work helps people navigate life after spinal cord injury and realise that their ambitions don’t end because of their injury. I’m proud to help shine a light on the incredible work Back Up does every day.”

Spinal cord injury can happen to anyone, at any time. Every two hours, someone’s life in the UK changes forever due to a spinal cord injury. Over 4,700 people in the UK sustained or were diagnosed with a spinal cord injury in the past year — a 7% increase from the previous 12 months. This rise is linked to improved data collection and a growing number of people sustaining injuries later in life. And, today, around 105,000 people are living with the effects of spinal cord injury across the UK.

Back Up charity’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.”

Adaptive fashion is designed with hidden modifications to be easier, more comfortable and safer to wear. Features such as magnetic buttons, Velcro, snap fasteners, and ring-pull zippers for instance replace standard small buttons and laces. While trousers and skirts might feature higher back rises and side-seam waist adjustments tailored for wheelchair users.

Back Up is committed to ensuring that anyone affected by spinal cord injury can get the support they need. The money raised from Front Row helps Back Up to provide vital services to help transform lives. From wheelchair skills training to activity courses and mentoring to career development, Back Up empowers people to live confidently, make meaningful connections, and reach their full potential.

And just like that London Fashion Week 2026 has drawn to a close. But these adaptive, comfortable and imaginative clothes, by innovative designer brands such as Intotum, Unhidden, May Marigold and Recondition, plus pre-loved Designer Exchange will be improving the lives and confidence of people with spinal injuries all year round.