Links – Disability Resources


This page contains a variety of disability resources that you may find useful. They are divided into headings, with a clickable list of contents below, to help you jump through the page.

The links are primarily UK-based, as that’s where I live. But a lot of the information may be useful wherever you are in the world. There are also a few American and international sites included, which are indicated where appropriate. If you have any links you think I should add, feel free to contact me.

Note: I am not responsible for the content of any sites listed, so cannot guarantee the accuracy or suitability of the information they contain. I’m just providing the links in good faith. Please do your own research and seek appropriate advice before taking any actions or making any purchases.

Other useful pages and lists you may want to check out include:

Contents

News & Information

UK

UK News Sites

  • BBC Disability News – The BBC’s dedicated news page for disability stories.
  • BBC Ouch! – Podcasts, videos and other content for disabled people.
  • Disabled World – “Disability, health, medical, assistive products and world news including breaking news and information we receive from worldwide disability organizations and government departments, universities and educational institutions, as well as our in-house articles.”
  • Disability Today – “Delivering in real time, local, national and international news. Covering a wide range of topics from research, education, sport, leisure and travel – all topics relevant to the disabled community, and all in one place.”
  • The Guardian Disability News – The newspaper’s latest disability stories.

UK Magazines

  • Ability Needs – “The country’s most informative, best distributed disability magazine for the less able and their carers.”
  • Able – “Bringing you disability news and features. We’re about what people can do, not what they can’t!”
  • Captivating! – Digital lifestyle magazine designed to empower people with disabilities, created by Chelsea Nguyen from CN Vision Image Consulting and Stephanae McCoy from Bold Blind Beauty.
  • Disability Review Magazine – “An A4 full colour glossy magazine that highlights and promotes the issues of importance to disabled people in the UK today.”
  • Enable – “An exciting, forward-thinking, award-nominated disability lifestyle magazine. Our focus is people, not products, making Enable a relatable, inspirational read for anyone whose life is touched by disability.”
  • Liability Magazine – “A publication run by women with big mouths and bigger expectations. Features a monthly collection of articles that promise to tickle the senses and cater to most.”
  • OT Magazine – “Produced to bring occupational therapists a useful resource, designed to keep you up-to-date with the latest products and services on the market that can aid independent living.”
  • PosAbility – “The UK’s most innovative and refreshing disability lifestyle publication. Every issue is packed with engaging stories, the latest products, adventurous activities, fantastic competitions and so much more!”
  • Rare Revolution – “Digital magazine giving a voice to patients affected by rare conditions and the charities that represent and support them.”
  • Spoonie Stuff – “An online women’s magazine dedicated to chronic illness, bringing spoonies a dose of positivity with useful tips and inspiring stories.”

Other UK Information Resources

  • Ableize – “The largest and most viewed UK disability resource offering hand picked disability, mobility and health related websites and social media pages covering the UK and Europe.”
  • Disability Horizons – “Publishes articles on a wide variety of topics, all to support the aim of a world where disabled people live exactly as they choose to.”
  • Focus On Disability – “Online support, information and products for disabled people, the elderly and their carers.”
  • Money Saving Tips For Disabled People (Money Saving Expert) – “We’ve rounded up as many tips and tricks for disabled MoneySavers as we can – from knowing your consumer rights and what adjustments firms should make for you, to how to get a free (or cheap) key to accessible toilets or a ‘free’ cinema ticket for a friend/carer.”
  • Our Disability Community – “The ‘go to’ platform for disabled people to share their experiences, tricks and adaptations to living a life to the max with a disability.”
  • You’re Able – “An online community of and for disabled people, supporting and helping each other by sharing their experiences.”

USA

  • Ability Magazine – “The leading publication for health, disability and human potential. Strives to change public perception of what it means to have a disability and focuses on ability.”
  • Disability History Association – “An international non-profit organization that promotes the study of disabilities throughout history. This includes, but is not limited to, the history of individuals or groups with disabilities, perspectives on disability, representations/constructions of disability, policy and practice history, teaching, theory, and Disability and related social and civil rights movements.”
  • Disability Today Network – “People, Partners, Products and Places. The Network – connects today’s disability community in a new way.”
  • Disabled World – “We publish news articles and information received from disability related organizations and Government departments around the world that are of interest to persons with disabilities, carers, and the general public.”

Charities

  • Action On Disability – “A user led organisation managed and controlled by disabled people, to campaign for the rights of disabled people, deliver high quality professional accessible activities, and give disabled people the knowledge and confidence about their rights.”
  • Disabled Living – “A charity providing impartial information about equipment and services for disabled adults, children, older people and the professionals.”
  • Disabled Living Foundation – “National charity providing impartial advice, information and training on independent living.”
  • Enhance The UK – “We want to change the way people view disability and for us to be active and equal members of society. We do this by supporting businesses to be more inclusive by providing disability awareness training, as well as offering a number of other services and resources.”
  • Generate – “Generate’s mission is to create better days and better lives for people with a learning disability by working together with them and the people who know them well.  It is our intention to provide purpose, develop independence and encourage connections through people, places and activity.”
  • Genetic Alliance UK – “National charity working to improve the lives of patients and families affected by all types of genetic conditions. We are an alliance of over 200 patient organisations. Our aim is to ensure that high-quality services, information and support are provided to all who need them.”
  • Inclusion London – “We support Deaf and Disabled people’s organisations in London and campaign for equality for Deaf and Disabled people.”
  • Leonard Cheshire – “We support individuals to live, learn and work as independently as they choose, whatever their ability. Led by people with experience of disability, we are at the heart of local life — opening doors to opportunity, choice and support in communities around the globe.”
  • Little People UK – “Provides support and information to people of short stature and their families. We are dedicated to improving the quality of life for people with dwarfism while celebrating, with great pride, little people’s contribution to social diversity.”
  • Livability – “The disability charity that connects people with their communities. We tackle social isolation and the barriers that can cause this in the lives of disabled and vulnerable people.”
  • Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation For Disabled People – “National disability charity based in Surrey. We have more than 80 years’ experience of developing innovative services which support people with disabilities to increase their independence and achieve their goals in life.”
  • Rare Disease UK – “Provides a united voice for the rare disease community by capturing the experiences of patients and families. We seek to bring about lasting change offering better health and quality of life for individuals and families affected by rare diseases.”
  • SAFS – “SAFS mission is ‘to enhance the quality of life of – and create opportunities for – South Asian children, young people and adults who have a disability, life limiting or life threatening condition by providing a range of quality care and support services’.
  • Scope – “We provide support, information and advice to more than a quarter of a million disabled people and their families every year. We raise awareness of the issues that matter. And with your support, we’ll keep driving change across society until this country is great for everyone.”
  • Shaw Trust – “Charity helping to transform the lives of young people and adults across the UK and internationally. Our specialist services help people gain an education, enter work, develop their career, improve their wellbeing or rebuild their lives.” They also publish the annual Disability Power 100 List of the most influential disabled people in the UK.
  • Skiggle – “A non-profit online community for individuals, carers and families seeking care-based essential items. We’re here to help each other in unexpected times of need. Our growing network is made up of individuals who are willing to help others by providing missing consumables and equipment in times of need.”
  • Unique – “Supports and informs anyone born with a rare chromosome disorder, their families and carers.”
  • Warrington Disability Partnership – “Internationally acclaimed user led charity. With over 26 years’ experience of developing and delivering mobility and independent living services, our aim is to support disabled people and people living with long term health conditions.”

Access Guides

  • AccessAble (app also available on iTunes & Google Play) – “Here to take the chance out of going out. To give you the information and detail you need to work out if a place is going to be accessible for you. We’ve surveyed 10,000s of venues across the UK and Ireland, including shops, pubs, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, railway stations, hotels, colleges, universities, hospitals and more.”
  • Access Advisr – “Created to provide a user-led real-world view of how easy-to-access different places and transport stops are for disabled people. The aim is to provide a simple mechanism to allow people with mobility challenges to rate and find first-hand accessibility information.”
  • Access Card – “We translate your disability / impairment into symbols which highlight the barriers you face and the reasonable adjustments you might need. This then informs providers quickly and discreetly about the support you need and may gain you access to things like concessionary ticket prices and complex reasonable adjustments without having to go into loads of personal detail.”
  • Access Champions – “We are here to make it easier to know what in your environment can be changed to make it easier for you to access buildings and other facilities.”
  • Euan’s Guide – “The disabled access review website that aims to ‘remove the fear of the unknown’ and inspire people to try new places.”
  • Heritage Ability – “We are helping at least 20 South West heritage destinations over the next three years become more accessible. These places will then become role models to show what can be done to make our wonderful heritage more accessible and inclusive.”
  • Me Included – “Your feedback matters. It helps build a picture of the quality and reliability of disabled access and facilities in the UK, and how accessible individual businesses and services are.  We work with businesses, to ‘shine a light’ on where they do well, where they need to improve and to better understand what matters to their customers and their employees.”
  • The Outdoor Guide – “Offers news, views and info on all things outdoors. Making the inaccessible accessible.”
  • Rough Guide To Accessible Britain – “Packed with reviews of accessible and inspiring days out, the Guide aims to inspire and support people with diverse needs in enjoying the best of Britain’s attractions – whatever their disability.”

Accessibility (Digital)

  • Web Content Accessibility Guidelines – “The WCAG documents explain how to make web content more accessible to people with disabilities.”
  • The Big Hack (by Scope) – “Working with the tech industry to break down barriers disabled people face both online and in real life. Driven and inspired by a movement of disabled customers, we are sharing our knowledge around accessibility, inclusive design and inclusive workplaces to help businesses improve their customer offer.”
  • AudioEye – “Our suite of products and services are designed to enable equal access, enhance the user experience for all, and provide sustainable, results-driven accessibility solutions for any enterprise with an online presence.”
  • Techbility – “Developing accessible web and app experiences that work for everyone, including persons with a wide range of knowledge, languages, abilities and disabilities.”
  • Bureau of Internet Accessibility (USA) – “Our testing (Section 508 & WCAG 2.0) enables organizations to understand how inclusive their website is to all Internet users.”

Arts & Entertainment

  • Accessible Screenings – “Listing site to help you find information on accessible screenings in UK cinemas.”
  • Ambassador Theatre Group Access – “Enables anyone who would benefit from additional support because of a disability or health condition to visit our theatres and have an enjoyable visit. If you have additional requirements of any sort, there is likely to be something we provide that will improve your experience.”
  • CEA Card – “National card scheme developed for UK cinemas by the UK Cinema Association (UKCA). The card enables a disabled cinema guest to receive a complimentary ticket for someone to go with them when they visit a participating cinema. The card is also one way for cinemas to make sure they look after their disabled guests.”
  • Department Of Ability – “The most original, fearless, imaginative superheroes ever created. Originally inspired by the lack of decent visible disability in the media. These five groundbreaking heroes have now grown into something demanded and adored by a ready audience worldwide.”
  • Henry Fraser Art – “Mouth artist, author & speaker, paralysed from shoulders down, author of The Little Big Things.”
  • Zebedee Management – “Our models, actors & performers can achieve anything they want – they’re amazingly talented and take on any challenge or opportunity that they’re offered – but they may need a little extra help from time to time. And that’s where our inclusive agency and unique approach make such a big difference.”

Assistance Dogs

  • Hearing Dogs For Deaf People – “We train amazing hearing dogs to improve the lives of deaf people across the UK.”
  • Support Dogs – “Training assistance dogs to transform the lives of adults and children affected by epilepsy, autism and disability.”

Awareness Campaigns

  • Deaf Awareness Week – “A unique campaign in that so many different organisations participate, each able to promote their own work within the broad spectrum of deafness.”
  • Disabled Access Day – “All about visiting somewhere that you’ve never been to before and trying something new in an atmosphere of cooperation, safety and fun. It’s about places helping to create opportunities, experiences and a warm welcome.
  • Disability Awareness Day – “The world’s largest ‘not for profit’ voluntary-led disability exhibition, held annually in a huge tented village within the grounds of Walton Hall Gardens in Warrington.”
  • Don’t Want Our Cash – “Campaign to raise awareness of access issues that disabled people face when trying to do the same things their able bodied counterparts would. The aim of the campaign is to gather enough evidence to take to Parliament and change the reasonable adjustments policy so that there is no longer any ambiguity as to what constitutes as ‘reasonable’.”
  • Rare Disease Day – “Takes place on the last day of February each year. The main objective is to raise awareness amongst the general public and decision-makers about rare diseases and their impact on patients’ lives.”

Business & Employment

  • AABRS – What Business Resources are Available for People with Disabilities? – List of resources for disabled people setting up businesses in the UK, USA, Canada & Australia.
  • Access To Work Scheme – UK Government scheme supporting disabled people in employment, by funding travel costs and workplace adaptations.
  • Association Of Disabled Professionals – “Drawing on the expertise of disabled professionals to improve the educational and employment opportunities of disabled people.”
  • ATW Solutions – “A specialist partnership of employment support consultants with an extensive experience in the employment support sector across the UK.. As disabled people ourselves, no one is better placed to recognise and appreciate your unique employment journey.”
  • Barclays Accessibility – “Our aim is to provide accessible services for all our customers, including those who have disabilities. We regularly engage with disability organisations and charities to access their knowledge. We also hold more focused discussions with panels of customers, shaping the way we deliver our service changes.”
  • Business Disability Forum – “A not-for-profit membership organisation that makes it easier and more rewarding to do business with and employ disabled people. By providing pragmatic support, sharing expertise, giving advice, providing training and facilitating networking opportunities, we help organisations become fully accessible to disabled customers and employees.”
  • Microlink – “We have enabled over a quarter of a million people with health conditions to succeed in education and employment. We stock the largest range of technology and tools in the UK. Our workplace adjustment service, MiCase, is embraced as best practice for some of the largest corporations in the country.”
  • Open Inclusion – “By drawing on insights from real users, we help you find the barriers in your customer experience for people with different needs. We then help you adapt your products, services or environments to better include these audiences.”
  • Purple Space – “The world’s only networking and professional development hub for disabled employees, network and resource group leaders and allies from all sectors and trades.”
  • The Valuable 500 – “Our Valuable 500 companies and leaders have committed to putting disability inclusion on their business leadership agenda. We’re processing new companies all the time and are proud to announce the following confirmed organisations.”
  • Visualise Training & Consultancy – “We work nationally and internationally with organisations and businesses to increase awareness of the accessibility challenges faced by employees and or customers with disabilities.”
  • Disabled IN (USA) – “We empower business to achieve disability inclusion and equality.”

Cancer Support

  • Bloodwise – “We’re here to stop people dying from blood cancer, to make patients’ lives better, and to stop blood cancer happening in the first place.”
  • Cancer Research UK – “We fund scientists, doctors and nurses to help beat cancer sooner. We also provide cancer information to the public.”
  • Charlotte’s BAG – “One of the only UK charities specifically focusing on raising funds for research into, and awareness of, glioblastoma multiforme.  This very rare and currently nearly always terminal form of brain cancer can affect anyone of any age.” This charity was formed following the death of Charlotte Eades.
  • Macmillan Cancer Support – “We know how a cancer diagnosis can affect everything. So we’re here to support you and help you take back some control in your life. From help with money worries and advice about work, to someone who’ll listen if you just want to talk, we’re here.”
  • Stand Up To Cancer – “Brought to you by Cancer Research UK and Channel 4, Stand Up To Cancer is an annual fundraising campaign that brings the UK together to accelerate progress in life-saving cancer research.”

Communication

  • CPR Global Technology – “We deploy technology so that individuals can benefit from the power of their immediate community. We break down social isolation. We don’t focus on vulnerabilities, we focus on the whole person, at home and out & about.”
  • iResTech – “iRis Phone is the easiest & simplest smartphone for the home. No menus, no buttons, no touchscreen pressing necessary.”

Communities

  • The Mighty – “A digital health community created to empower and connect people facing health challenges and disabilities. We have over 2 million registered users and are adding a new one every 20 seconds. Our stories and videos are viewed and shared more than 90 million times a month.”
  • Yoocan – “With thousands of community members making daily connections, finding new friendships and relevant solutions, we are the world’s #1 collaborative community for sharing experiences and knowledge for and by people with disabilities.”

Equality & Disability Rights

  • Disability Rights UK – “Disabled people leading change, working for equal participation for all. We want a society where everyone can participate equally.”
  • Disability Wales (Anabledd Cymru) – “Exists to champion the rights, equality and independence of all disabled people in Wales. As a membership organisation run by disabled people, we provide a strong voice and leadership to influence policy on the issues that matter to our members.”
  • Equality & Human Rights Commission – “We live in a country with a long history of upholding people’s rights, valuing diversity and challenging intolerance. The EHRC seeks to maintain and strengthen this heritage while identifying and tackling areas where there is still unfair discrimination or where human rights are not being respected.”

Events

  • Autism Central – Showcases support and services available to those on the autistic spectrum, their families and support professionals.
  • Naidex – Europe’s largest disability event for trade, healthcare professionals and end-users, showcasing innovation, information, suppliers and speakers.

Hearing Loss Support

  • BSL Courses – “Learn British Sign Language online at your own pace – whatever your goals and current level.”
  • National Deaf Children’s Society – “The leading charity dedicated to creating a world without barriers for deaf children and young people.”
  • Sign Live – “Allows Deaf people anywhere in the world to communicate with anyone, at any time, using an app which connects them to a qualified British Sign Language Interpreter.”
  • Stagetext – “A registered charity which provides captioning and live subtitling services to theatres and other arts venues to make their activities accessible to people who are d/Deaf, deafened or hard of hearing.”
  • UK Council on Deafness – “Working towards a world in which people who are deaf or have a hearing loss are able to fulfil their potential.”

Holidays

UK

  • Blue Badge Access Awards – “We believe in a world that’s accessible for all. So we’re celebrating exceptional venues that welcome anyone through their doors.”
  • Bond Hotel Blackpool – “As the UK’s largest disability friendly hotel we have many fantastic facilities to make your stay unforgettable. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing respite break or a fun-packed holiday, The Bond Hotel has it all and our friendly atmosphere and welcoming staff will make you feel right at home”.
  • Calvert Trust – “Enables disabled adults and children, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure in the countryside.”
  • Church Farm Barns – “Family run business in the quiet hamlet of Bircham Newton, on the outskirts of Great Bircham village, North Norfolk. The eight properties are all renovated farm buildings which have been converted to a high standard to accommodate the disabled and their families.”
  • Maison des Landes Hotel (Jersey) – “Catering for guests with all manner of disabilities since the 1960s. We endeavour to provide everything guests may require in tailored accommodation, from electric beds to ceiling hoists, as well as wheel-in wet rooms and a large, readily accessible hydrotherapy pool.”
  • Park House Hotel – “Supports disabled guests and their carers or companions to have a holiday or period of respite together in the beautiful Norfolk countryside.”
  • Revitalise Respite Holidays – “National charity providing short breaks and holidays (respite care) for disabled people and carers.”
  • Safehands Holidays – “Our venues offer a first class hotel experience where you can be assured your every need is catered for, in a fully accessible environment with caring and dedicated staff.”
  • Treworgans – “Our specially converted self-catering cottages are perfect for disabled holidays in Cornwall, providing fully wheelchair accessible accommodation with free use of all mobility equipment.”

Abroad

  • Access Travel – “We provide disabled, wheelchair accessible holiday solutions for people with restricted mobility.”
  • Accessible Indonesia – “Offers individual and group tours for travelers with disability and seniors. We aim to accommodate people with any kind of disability.”
  • Bask For All – “We’re an entrepreneurial team committed to making your experience in the Basque Country unique and to creating a more inclusive and sustainable region. We are dedicated to accessible tourism.”
  • BCN4All – “Provides personal care and tourist support services for anyone wishing to visit Barcelona regardless of age, mobility impairment, physical, intellectual or medical condition.”
  • Cadamà – “The aim of Cadamà accessible sail boat project is to enable people with disabilities in general and paraplegics in particular to take on sailing, actually putting effort in the navigation while on multiple days cruises.”
  • Destination Everywhere – “Your online companion and resource if you have a disability and you want to travel. We choose the activities and services that we present in the website according to various criteria, since there is yet no international unique standard.”
  • Handiscover – “Gathers great hosts, disabled friendly accommodations and hotels that we select carefully for their quality and value. We offer a mix of accommodations adapted to different levels of mobility.”
  • Makin’ Tracks Ltd – “We offer inspirational tours in Europe for wheelchair users with a real appetite for travel.”
  • Native Hotels – “We are a group of journalists, engineers and professionals of tourism specialized in promoting accessible tourism in various countries, willing to ensure that we all have equal access to the enjoyment of our favourite hotels.”
  • Sano Tours – “We are here to enhance travel services in Romania that are not fully accessible at this stage on the market – accessible travel. Our offer is adapted especially for seniors and we design holiday packages and tours accessible to travellers with special needs.”
  • Tourism For All – “Our mission is to provide quality services to whom wishes to travel to and in Portugal, regardless of their health condition, as well as to meet their needs and expectations, providing comfort, safety, leisure, accessibility and continuity of their treatments to ensure their wellbeing.”

Guides & Articles

  • Able Magazine Travel Guides – Location guides and travel advice.
  • Flying with Disabilities and Special Needs Guide – “You might be afraid to fly because of a disability, health condition, or even your age. These variables might make flying more difficult but not impossible. You can practice the advice from this flying guide to build confidence and gradually plan longer trips.” – Submitted by Forrest Hiatt from Johnny Jet.
  • Travelling Abroad With A Disability – “If you have a medical condition, you shouldn’t be worried about travelling abroad – as long as you take the right precautions. This resource will address some of the common problems associated with travelling abroad, providing expert advice and tips throughout.” Submitted by Melissa Miles.
  • World’s Most Wheelchair-Friendly Tourist Attractions – “The world’s top tourist attractions should be every bit as accommodating towards people with disabilities as they are for able-bodied visitors. Here are 9 tourist attractions which deserve considerable praise for their wheelchair-friendliness.” Submitted by Michael Leavy at Home Healthcare Adaptations.

Home

  • Centrobed – “Offers a range of beds and cots to suit the needs of all kinds of patient. Giving you comfort and independence, our bariatric and paediatric beds deliver safety, convenience and customisation.”
  • Design For Independence – “We can interpret complex medical conditions into architectural designs, we know exactly how much space is needed in every room and where equipment needs to be placed, and we ensure privacy and dignity are paramount.  We are therefore able to give the best advice on purchasing, designing and adapting properties for people who are disabled.”
  • Home From Home Care – “Care home for special needs, learning disabilities, autism, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, PMLD, complex health and mental health.”
  • Macro Level Smarthomes – “We pride ourselves on delivering top quality products and services, always aiming to exceed our customers expectations. We focus on integrating technologies which are the best in class, resulting in a smarter automation system, capable of rapidly responding to the needs and wants of the customers.”
  • Med Page – “Medpage T/A Easylink UK have supplied assistive care technologies (Telecare) for over 30 years. Our range of products to aid care of the elderly and people with special needs is vigilantly selected when proven to offer substantial benefit and purpose to the individual and carer.”

Mobility

  • ADAPTS – “ADAPTS (A Disabled Passenger Transfer Sling) is a portable assistive device designed to help wheelchair travelers during an emergency evacuation.”
  • DriveAble – “The guide to disability motoring.”
  • Easy Pay Mobility – “Hire the latest mobility scooter with our affordable rental packages.”
  • Home Safety Checklist for Wheelchair Users – An extensive guide from RS Components with important recommendations for ensuring safety in the home. Submitted by Eunice Banes.
  • McElmeel Mobility Services – “The UK and Ireland’s original adaptor and converter of vehicles for disabled drivers and passengers. We offer a complete range of products and vehicles to suit all requirements.”
  • Motability – “Enables disabled people to get mobile by exchanging their mobility allowance to lease a new car, scooter or powered wheelchair.”
  • Mountain Trike – “All terrain outdoor wheelchairs with rugged good looks, lightweight aluminium frames, high end Mountain Bike technology and all fully tested for your ultimate comfort and safety.”
  • KYMCO Healthcare – “We have been manufacturing high quality mobility scooters for over 15 years.”
  • Quantum Rehab – “A world leader in the design, development and manufacture of mobility products – power chairs, scooters and lift chairs – for people with disabilities and mobility impairments.”
  • Relync Mobility Scooters – “Integrating the most advanced technology to date, not only to improve safety, convenience, and comfort but to regain the confidence to experience travel again,  without barriers. We are continuing to work on AI and automation, but in a way that we know will subvert the entire industry.”
  • SMOOV – “SMOOV stands for ‘smart moving’ and – most importantly – for the fun and quality of life that we, as a young team, want to give to all active wheelchair users.”
  • UKS Mobility – “Great mobility aids and disability equipment at great prices with great service.”

Research & Consultations

  • Research Institute for Disabled Consumers (RIDC) – “The leading expert in user-centred research. All of our work is carried out by our research forum of 900+ disabled and older consumers, who take part in mystery shopping and research projects.”

Products

UK

  • Blue Badge Company – “We make stylish blue badge display wallets & attractive living aids. Committed to employing those with limited work options.”
  • Designed2Enable – “We believe that assistive products should enhance your life in more ways than one. That’s why we’ve put together our range of daily living products, chosen not only for their excellent functional design, but for their beautiful looks too.”
  • Patti + Ricky – “An online shopping experience that offers stylish and functional designer products for individuals with disAbilities.”
  • Rate It! – “UK-based website that offers disabled and older people a space to share their views and reviews of products (both specialist and mainstream) that can help to make life easier.”

Europe

  • HandShoe Mouse – “The ultimate solution to prevent RSI and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. The special shape allows your hand and wrist to float without any effort. Its full hand and finger support prevents skin contact with the desktop, unlike most computer mouse types.”
  • Quick Shoelace – “An elastic lace that doesn’t need to tie, you just stretch it and clip it. On one end of the lace is a ring that you just clip on the metal pieces. All the parts are replaceable and can be disassembled very quickly.” Based in Slovenia.
  • Rehadapt – “The world’s leading manufacturer of mounting assistive technology.” Based in Germany.

USA

  • Enabling The Future – “The e-NABLE Community is an amazing group of individuals from all over the world who are using their 3D printers to create free 3D printed hands and arms for those in need of an upper limb assistive device.”
  • Simple Laces – “Easy and simple to install, fasten and unfasten without knots, twists or extra hardware and will fit in any shoe that has eyelets, holes or loops.  It only takes one finger to fasten and unfasten. Ideal for people who have short or long term injuries or disabilities that hinder their ability to fasten current lacing systems.”

Sport & Fitness

  • Ability Bow – “Not-for-profit fully accessible gym for anyone with disabilities or health conditions.”
  • Adaptive Martial Arts – “We aim to provide a safe, inviting and peer orientated environment where people feel comfortable in trying out exercise and Martial Arts.”
  • Agility Magazine – “Online magazine celebrating the best in disability sports.”
  • Birding For All – “Seeking to improve access for people with disabilities to reserves, facilities and services for birding. Membership is free and open to all regardless of physical ability.”
  • British Disabled Angling Association – “The volunteer trustees dedicate their time to providing support, information & services to disabled people, their families, fishery owners, clubs & retailers in order to socially integrate disabled and non-disabled people within angling.”
  • Calvert Trust – “Enables disabled adults and children, together with their families and friends, to achieve their potential through the challenge of outdoor adventure in the countryside.”
  • Disabled Sailing Association – “We aim to give people with a disability, family and carers the opportunity to enjoy a safe and pleasurable experience of seagoing sailing, including short local cruising of about two to three hours and for the more adventurous, longer coastal passages.”
  • Jubilee Sailing Trust – “International disability charity, promoting integration through the challenge and adventure of tall ship sailing. We provide life-changing adventures to people of all ages, backgrounds and levels of physical ability.”
  • OnTrack Magazine – “We believe that sports should be accessible to all and aim to bring readers an insight into the world of accessible sport from grassroots to the podium.”
  • Para Dance UK – “National governing body for Para Dance Sport in the UK. Our aim is to develop and promote dance as a sport and an inclusive leisure activity across the country for those who would otherwise be excluded.”
  • Riding For The Disabled Association – “Provides opportunities for disabled adults & children to ride, carriage drive, vault & showjump.”
  • Scuba Trust – “Helping those with disabilities – and their friends – experience the joy and freedom of scuba diving.”
  • Wheels For Wellbeing – “Award-winning charity supporting disabled people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of cycling.”

Technology Support

  • Ability Net – “Helps people of any age and with any disability to use technology to achieve their goals at home, at work and in education. We do this by providing specialist advice services, free information resources and by helping to build a more accessible digital world.”
  • British Assistive Technology Association – “BATA members are suppliers, ssistive Technology professionals and organisations who provide support to individuals with disabilities who need Assistive Technology solutions. We provide an information and signposting service to the public in directing enquiries to relevant members (and other relevant groups/organisations).”
  • Disability Innovation Research Society – “Part of the GDI Hub. We aim to bring together PhD candidates and Post-Doc researchers that look at disability innovation and accessible technology.”
  • Global Disability Innovation Hub (GDI Hub) – “Brings together academic excellence, innovative practice and co-creation, harnessing the power of technology for good.”

Toilets

  • Changing Places – “Over a quarter of a million people in the UK need Changing Places toilets but there are only just over 1,000 across the UK. The Changing Places Consortium is campaigning to change this.”
  • Mobiloo – “The world’s first attended mobile toilet service with hoist and changing bench. Having a Mobiloo at a venue or event means anyone can attend.”
  • RADAR Key Company – “We are a commercial company, who for 25 years have been manufacturing our quality keys and marketing all aspects of the accessible toilets National Key Scheme (NKS). We are focussed on helping disabled people with a basic right – to find the toilets which they need and to then reliably gain access.”

Training

  • Arts Coaching Training – “My name is Lynn Cox and my ultimate dream is to have inclusion at the heart of everything. My business offers you everything inclusive within the three main areas of Art, Coaching and Training.”
  • Centre For Resolution – “Represents a group of professionals with a range of specialist skills that work alongside communities to improve people’s lives, aiming to deliver professional services that will inspire positive changes, giving individuals the guidance they need to succeed.”
  • Toucan Diversity – “An award winning social enterprise delivering equality training with a focus on disability. All training is designed & delivered by accredited trainers.”

Transport

London

  • Freedom Pass – “The Freedom Pass for disabled and older people allows free travel across London and free local bus journeys nationally.”
  • Taxicard  – “Offers subsidised travel in licensed taxis and private hire vehicles to London residents with serious mobility impairments or who are severely sight impaired. It enables members who have difficulty in using buses, trains and tubes to get out and about.”
  • Transport for London Accessibility – “London has a wide range of accessible transport options so that everyone can get around.”
  • Transport For All – “The organisation of disabled and older people dedicated to champion the rights of disabled and older people to travel with freedom and independence in London.”

UK

  • Disabled Persons Railcard – “Get ⅓ off adult rail fares for travel on the National Rail network in Great Britain. If you’re travelling with another adult they will also get ⅓ off their rail fare, so you can save money for a friend or family member too!”
  • National Express Disabled Coachcard – “Buy a Disabled Coachcard and Save. Take 1/3 off our Standard and Fully Flexible fares any time.”
  • Transreport Passenger Assist – “Coming soon. Passenger Assist is the perfect tool for those who require specific assistance at train stations. Use our app to send your exact location to staff at train stations, who will locate you quickly – just press one button and help comes to you. No trouble. No effort. Just assistance.”

Other International Organisations

USA

  • A Group For Me – “Connect to others sharing the same medical issues or life concerns for scheduled support groups online.”
  • Ability Unlimited – “Provides assistive technology, environmental modifications and durable medical equipment to people with special needs through Medicaid funding. We help you navigate Medicaid and the approval process, to give our clients unlimited possibilities.”
  • Birth Injury Justice Center -“Online resource for anyone affected by birth injuries, brain injuries, cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy or other disabilities. We provide answers and guidance to help families and children get all the assistance they need to help improve their overall quality of life.”
  • Cerebral Palsy Group – “We are here to provide information and support so that we may help provide resources and education to those affected by cerebral palsy..”
  • Cleaner Indoor Air – “There are millions of Americans who report allergic, immunologic, asthmatic and neurological reactions to perfumes, colognes, chemicals and synthetic fragrances.  The CIA Campaign strives to educate medical facilities, businesses and churches on how to create a less threatening environment for this growing number of people.”
  • Disability Advocates of Kent County – “Works alongside people with disabilities as they seek to lead self-directed lives and to advocate for accessible and welcoming communities.”
  • Disability Visibility Project – “An online community dedicated to recording, amplifying, and sharing disability media and culture. The DVP is also a community partnership with StoryCorps, a national oral history organization. Our aim is to create disabled media that is intersectional, multi-modal, and accessible.”
  • Invisible Disabilities Organization  “We are passionate about providing awareness that invisible illness, pain and disabilities are very real! Our mission is to encourage, educate and connect people and organizations touched by illness, pain and disability around the globe.”
  • National Organization For Rare Disorders – “Patient advocacy organization dedicated to individuals with rare diseases and the organizations that serve them. Committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders.”
  • New Hampshire Disability & Public Health Project – “Our goal is to improve the health and quality of life of people with disabilities in NH by strengthening the capacity of the state’s public health programs and initiatives to include people with intellectual disabilities and mobility limitations.”
  • Ruderman Family Foundation – “Guided by our Jewish values, we support effective programs, innovative partnerships and a dynamic approach to philanthropy in our core areas of interest: advocating for and advancing the inclusion of people with disabilities throughout the Jewish community.”
  • Sandcastle Centers – “Focuses on bringing the best scientific knowledge to our centers through one on one individualized and intentional learning. We provide applied behavior analysis services in multiple environments, and work with families to determine the best location for services. “

Canada

  • Calgary Ability Network – “A cross-sector stakeholder partnership. We collaborate to influence policy, supporting persons with disabilities.”

USA Articles

These articles, which various people have kindly sent to me, are shared in good faith. I cannot verify their accuracy, and you should do your own research before acting on any information they contain. If you do feel that any articles here are inaccurate or inappropriate, please let me know.

3 thoughts on “Links – Disability Resources”

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