National campaign aims for step change in disability justice

We all want a decent quality of life for ourselves and those we care about. Yet two million Disabled people are trapped in deep poverty, unable to afford to eat or to heat their home.

Social security doesn’t cover the hidden or additional costs of disability – things like electricity to run vital equipment and appropriate transport to get out of your home. And too many workplaces are unwilling to employ Disabled people.

For people with ME/CFS there is an added lack of understanding about the fluctuating nature of the condition and the need to balance activity with rest to avoid PEM/PESE. Some even refuse to view ME/CFS as a long term physical condition which “has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on his or her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities” – the definition of disability (Equality Act 2010)

That’s why WAMES is backing the UK-wide Campaign for Disability Justice, calling on Governments to work with organisations led by Disabled people to guarantee:

Opportunity

To support employers to create more accessible jobs and to ensure Disabled people have voluntary access to good quality employment support, without the threat of sanctions.

Security

To guarantee a decent standard of living for Disabled people, in or out of work, that adequately accounts for the additional costs they face. Improve social security so that everyone can live a decent life, whether they’re in work or not.

Respect

To lead the way in building a society that respects and values Disabled people and supports the development of local Disabled People’s Organisations (DPOs).

This is a significant initiative to call for change, supported by UK organisations such as Scope, Mencap, Disability Rights UK and the Trussell Trust, as well as many regional and local organisations.

Please, ACT NOW and sign up to support the campaign. Don’t forget to spread the word to your friends and families.

Follow the campaign on X at @CampaignFDJ and sign up at https://www.campaignfordisabilityjustice.org.uk/sign_up_to_support