Disability History Month is being celebrated from November 16th – December 16th 2023, and it’s something that everyone can get involved with. This year, the focus of DHM is “the Experience of Disablement amongst children and young people in the past, now and what is needed for the future.”.
Disability History Month is being celebrated from November 16th – December 16th 2023, and it’s something that everyone can get involved with. This year, the focus of DHM is “the Experience of Disablement amongst children and young people in the past, now and what is needed for the future.” (UK Disability History Month).
As a Union of Students, we aim to create an inclusive community where every student feels supported and has access to a range of services to help improve their student experience. We work with all of our student groups to ensure that they are accessible and able to offer their services to the entire student body.
This Disability History Month, we want to encourage you to be supportive of your peers and help create accessible spaces where there is no judgement. On Thursday 30th November 10.00am – 3.00pm, the Union is holding a Disability History Month Fair in the Atrium where you’ll be able to take part in a range of activities with the Executive Officers and the Advice Team. The following events are also taking place this week:
- Tuesday 28th November 2023 - Visually impaired tennis 4.00pm-5.00pm on the tennis courts
- Tuesday 28th November 2023 - Blind football 5.00pm-6.00pm lower pitch
- Thursday 30th November 2023 - Para cheer 4.00pm-5.00pm in the Atrium
- Thursday 30th November 2023 - Inclusive climbing 5.00pm-6.00pm at the climbing wall
So, what can you do?
- Champion for improved accessibility in public spaces, from wheelchair ramps to braille menus.
- Take the time to understand what adjustments or support a person actually needs instead of making assumptions.
- Challenge disablist comments and jokes.
- Educate yourself on the history of issues that disabled people face, both past and present.
- And lastly, be kind - not every disability is visible.
Our Advice Team are always on hand offering support to students who need it; you can find out more about what they do and how they can help you online. You can also reach out to your Vice President (Welfare), Jack, with any queries or issues.