Social Model of Disability

Over the last 18 months, while facilitating my courses, I have seen how important it is to change the narrative about disability. The perceptions of disabilities are often too narrow. They are shaped by society using the medical model of disability which sees disability as “less than”.  A few months ago there was backlash for Boots, because they put up a sign stating “less abled parking”. 

Boots rectified this quickly, but one can see where the decision makers got the language from and why it upset so many people. The mistake was not only expensive for Boots to correct but also hurt their reputation. This is not insignificant because estimates by the organisation Purple suggest that UK businesses are missing potential income from disabled consumers of up to 2 billion pounds a month.  

Language Matters

Specific language and actions get picked up by individuals and collectively by society. 

The Social Model of disability is powerful and has the potential to change attitudes. The Social Model was developed by disabled people in the 1970s as part of a campaign for equality and to change attitudes towards disability. The model says people are disabled by society rather than their difference or impairment. 

The Equality Act as legislation is there to protect individuals with protected characteristics from discrimination. But in reality individuals living with disabilities face barriers every day because of the attitudes of individuals and groups. This happens in every aspect of our lives from education, leisure settings, health, media and employment.

Overcoming Barriers, Not Disability

A week ago Jonathan Holburn, a graphic designer, shared on social media that he was looking for work. Jonathan clearly has experience from a number of internships and short contracts yet securing something longer term seems to be elusive. He appears to be facing discrimination because he is deaf. I felt the pain Jonathan shared in his LinkedIn post as I too know what it is like. Too often employers see “deaf” before they see the person and their skills. 

I set up independently for this reason. I have over the years learned techniques and technology that have helped me to maximise my skills in all my professional roles. For example, in my new business I use a smart phone to take notes for me. I share key actions from this with my clients. This has been very effective and ensures both parties are happy. My clients come back because they know the work agreed will be met. 

I believe Jonathan too will know what works for him and his clients. UK employers need to be reminded that Access to Work funds equipment and other support including training where needed. Employers should see Jonathan for his skills, not the barriers they perceive from the fact that he has a hearing loss. 

We as a society must embrace the Social Model of disability and see the person for their skills, talents, and interests. The economy not only loses out from us as direct consumers but as potential employers/employees with skills and knowledge.

Get in touch with us to find out how you can make a difference to employers, employees and clients in their attitudes towards disability. 

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Here are  more details from Jonathan should you be able to provide him an opportunity in graphic design.

From Jonathan:

“I am very much passionate about Branding & Packaging with FMCG in mind and am still looking for agencies or studios that offer this type of work. I am also interested in photography.”

Jonathan Holburn

Creative Designer & Photography

Website: www.jonathanholburn.co.uk

Twitter: @jonathanholburn

Instagram: jonholburn_photography