Diversity and Ability

Why Chris McCausland doesn't want you to call his Strictly win inspiring Chris McCausland, stand-up comedian and Strictly Come Dancing's first blind contestant, has won the Glitterball trophy. But he’s been clear: he doesn’t want his win—or his time on the show—to be called inspiring. ‘For me it’s not inspiring. I don’t think blind people need inspiring as much as they need representation. I’ve got in a taxi before and someone’s said, “Oh wow, you did the stairs on your own.” People think you can’t do anything if you’re blind.’ Thinking of everything Disabled people do as inspiring isn’t the compliment you might think it is. As Chris points out, calling us inspirations suggests you assumed we couldn’t do it in the first place. By now, you should know: if you think we can’t, we definitely can. Chris’s Strictly journey is the kind of representation we love. It challenges assumptions and breaks down barriers. What’s one assumption you wish non-disabled people would stop making? #Disability #ChrisMcCausland #StrictlyComeDancing #Inclusion

As the year wraps up, many of us are heading to work festive parties—but have you considered whether yours is truly accessible? In 2025, it’s time to rethink how we host events, ensuring inclusion is at the heart of every decision. Our latest blog dives into what it takes to create accessible, inclusive events, offering insights from both the host's perspective and the experiences of disabled attendees. Whether it’s physical accessibility, diverse line-ups, or thoughtful planning, we’re sharing everything we’ve learned to help you make your events welcoming for all. https://loom.ly/7Od7KbM #Disability #Neurodiversity #Accessibility #a11y #access

Today is the last day of Disability History Month. Why not take time today to celebrate and reflect on the month by reading another one of our team's journeys? This time, Brigit Colclough is taking us with her as she reframes what failure means to her. Our team is full of stories like Brigit's, but each brings their unique lens to our work. We couldn't be prouder of them! As Disability History Month comes to a close, let’s commit to carrying these reflections forward—ensuring that inclusion isn’t just a moment but a movement. Read Brigit's full article on our blog ↕️ https://lnkd.in/ewtp98ZP What has inspired you most this month? Please share your thoughts with us in the comments! #DisabilityHistoryMonth #DHM2024 #Disability #Inclusion

Have you been following Barriers Bingo? The aim wasn’t to get bingo—far from it. The goal is a world where no one can because, as a society, we’ve removed the barriers that hold disabled people back. But we’re not there yet. If Barriers Bingo opened your eyes to how many barriers exist, here’s the hard truth: that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Disabled people face even more every single day. Want to help change that? Start with your workplace. Our lived experience team specialises in identifying barriers buried in your organisation’s processes and teaching your people how to remove them. Together, we’ll ensure no one in your workplace is calling "bingo." Don't wait til the new year to make a change; book a consultation with our expert team today ⬇️ https://loom.ly/udJEpEE p.s. If you got bingo, let us know in the comments. Let's demonstrate how much work we still have to do! #Inclusion #Disability #Neurodiversity #BarriersBingo #DisabilityHistoryMonth

With Disability History Month coming to an end, Atif Choudhury has written a thought-provoking final article in our series with HRZone. In this piece, Atif explores how the pushback against EDI isn’t just a challenge – it’s an opportunity. By understanding the most common objections to inclusion initiatives, businesses can turn resistance into meaningful progress. The article highlights how adopting an anticipatory welcome – a proactive approach to inclusion – can transform these objections into opportunities to create stronger, more equitable workplaces. Don’t miss this insightful read. Whether you’re an HR leader, a manager, or simply passionate about inclusion, this article provides practical solutions and fresh perspectives. Read it now on HRZone: https://loom.ly/3TCA81A #Diversity #Inclusion #Disability #HR #EDI

Back in November, Atif Choudhury was joined by Nancy Doyle from Genius Within CIC to discuss adjustment passports. They unveiled how adjustment passports work, their strengths and flaws, and what they can tell us about the future of accessibility and inclusion. Catch up on our YouTube before tomorrow's episode: https://loom.ly/WBC7Wro #Disability #Neurodiversity #Accessibility #access #Inclusion

It's been an incredible series of #LabelsAndLegacies, and we've got one more to go! Remember to join us this Wednesday for the final instalment, when Atif Choudhury will be joined by our very own Maya Woodley! They'll be reflecting on the series and wrapping it up by reflecting on how we can change adjustments from being something we do for individuals to something we do for our entire workplace. Get the last tickets here: https://loom.ly/mc6uNd8 #Diversity #Inclusion #Disability #Neurodiversity

On Tuesday, we celebrated the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. A day dedicated to breaking down barriers and celebrating the contributions of Disabled people worldwide. We’ve pulled all our reflections, insights, and stories into one place for you to read, watch, and reflect. Here’s what you’ll find: 🌟 Why we wish it was called International Day of Disabled People We follow the social model of disability, which shifts the focus from what’s "wrong" with individuals to what’s wrong with society. Language matters—and we proudly say "Disabled people." 🎥 A Day in the Life of Disabled Employees See what an average workday looks like for Ellie Thompson, Scarlett James, and Roxanne Steel—three incredible members of our team. From remote working to inclusive consultancy, their stories show the value of accessible and flexible workplaces. 💡 What Inclusive Leadership Looks Like This year’s theme of inclusive leadership got us reflecting. Ellie Thompson and Leigh Spanner shared their thoughts on how to amplify others as an inclusive leader. Check out the blog: https://loom.ly/qAODB7c #IDPWD #DisabilityHistoryMonth #Disability #Inclusion

After #IDPWD, you might be thinking about how to step up your disability inclusion efforts for next year. Good news – there's still time to grab your free spot in our Disability Inclusion Insights series! 💜

Rounding out IDPWD with a peak into what working at D&A is like for our Roxanne Steel. You'll likely have seen Rox at our events, delivering training, sharing their wisdom and almost certainly wearing purple. Rox and our other wonderful expert facilitators are ready to help take your organisation's inclusion and accessibility to the next level. What better day than International Day of Persons with Disabilities to get cracking? To learn more, send us a DM 💜 #IDPWD #Disability #DisabilityHistoryMonth #Inclusion