Disability History Month has launched today across the UK, aiming to highlight the historical achievements and ongoing challenges of disabled communities.
This year’s theme, disability life and death, focuses on opposing the current draft legislation on assisted death, which campaigners allege challenges Article 10 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
Between 20 November to 20 December, organisations including Not Dead Yet will share resources demonstrating the impact of sidelining disabled people in national discussions.
Baroness Jane Campbell, a disabled crossbench peer and lifelong campaigner, said: “Most people in Parliament don’t live like us; the predominant voice is that we have a right to die. They do not consider, even for a minute, that we are still struggling for the right to live.
“Many of us become susceptible to dark thoughts of a quick solution rather than fight for the access which is essential to our happiness.”
Over 300 UK Disabled People’s Organisations have criticised the bill for devaluing disabled lives and coercing those impacted by the health and care funding crisis to choose death.
The month-long event will highlight a need to improve, not end, disabled lives through better healthcare access, social support, and representation.
Richard Riser, coordinator of UK Disability History Month, said: “Human beings can be inclusive of disabled people but may need guidance to recognise their prejudice.
“Through the efforts of the Disabled People’s Movement, humanity learned that it is the barriers created by society that disable. This month is about challenging disabling attitudes that persist and ensuring disabled people are provided the adjustments they need.”
In Sheffield, Support Dogs shows how practical support can make a measurable difference, providing life-changing assistance dogs to help adults with physical disabilities maintain independence and safety.
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The 360Wire-backed campaign Paws for a Cause aims to raise £1,000 for 10 autistic children to meet their support dogs, secure 15 sponsors for autism assistance dog Peggy, and get 10 new registrations of puppy socialisers for the charity, which is currently facing a waiting list crisis.
Supporting the campaign could be a step toward ensuring more disabled adults are not left to face difficult choices due to gaps in care.
Katie Williamson, Fundraising Assistant at Support Dogs, said: “The importance and value of assistance dogs for people with disabilities cannot be underestimated. 100% of our clients have increased independence and safety, which is always our priority.
“The majority are also more physically and socially active since having their dog, allowing for a healthier and more socially inclusive lifestyle.”
For more information on Support Dogs, visit here.
To view campaign updates, donate, register interest as a puppy socialiser or sponsor a dog, visit here.