Raising awareness about disability in the UK

Under the Equality Act 2010, a disabled person is classified as someone who has a substantial and long-term mental or physical impairment that has a negative effect on their ability to complete normal daily activities. Across the world, disabled people make up approximately 15% of the total population, which is increasing as the population ages and chronic health conditions increase. The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD) takes place annually to promote a disability-inclusive and accessible society.

In the UK, things are moving in the right direction to improve the lives of disabled people; the employment gap is reducing, access to services is improving and the government has committed to creating a society that works for everyone.

However, one in three disabled people feel that there is a lot of disability prejudice, with the presence of Covid-19 helping to highlight some of the ongoing shortfalls. In 2020, disabled people reported feeling abandoned and neglected, as well as more lonely, unsafe and worried about the impact of the virus, compared to those without disabilities. It is evident that things still need to go further to ensure that all products and services accommodate the needs of those with impairments. The first step towards achieving this is raising awareness about disability, so that people understand its wide-reaching impact.

We hope that our infographic helps to increase your knowledge about disability in the UK, and that you can help to spread awareness by sharing it with your family, friends and colleagues.