Latest News

Mark Briggs, Director of Partnerships at Derby-based social enterprise Nimbus Disability and vice chair of Mansfield’s Portland College has been named as one of the 100 most influential disabled people in the UK – working to break the stigma around disability to create a more accessible and inclusive world for all.

‘All In’ is a new scheme by the Arts Council which aims to improve the experience of people with disabilities and neurodivergent people going to creative and cultural events by removing barriers. It includes the right to a free companion ticket for anyone who needs support from another person to attend an event.

In the last 12 months there has been a 21% increase in calls to Contact’s helpline about exclusions of disabled children from schools. Of particular concern is that younger children with an additional need are facing exclusion – some aged just four and five.

The key purpose of Disability History Month is to raise awareness of the unequal position of disabled people in society and to advocate for disability equality; to develop an understanding of the historical roots of this inequality; to highlight the significance of disabled people’s struggles for equality and inclusion and the ‘social model’ of disability; to publicise and argue for the implementation of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of People with Disabilities and the Equalities Act (2010).

The children’s TV channel Milkshake has launched it’s first animated series to feature disabled lead characters. The MixMups follows three friends who live together in a wheelchair accessible Helter-Skelter house with their lovable assistance pets. Creator Rebecca Atkinson says ‘It’s my dream to create a compelling show that draws on my own experiences as a disabled person.’