1) Can I start by asking you to tell us a little about yourself?
I was born profoundly deaf to hearing parents, as are up to 95% of deaf children. I currently serve as the Chief Executive of Action on Disability and have worked in charity management and campaigning for nearly 30 years. In recognition of my contributions, I was awarded the OBE for services to the British Sign Language (BSL) community, particularly for my leadership of the BSL Act Now! Campaign, which led to the landmark BSL Act of 2022.
2) Many disabled people do not consider themselves to be disabled; do you think of yourself or describe yourself as disabled?
I have always been clear about how I describe myself. I am proud to be Deaf and to use British Sign Language as my preferred language, so I do not consider myself Disabled. It is society's communication and language barriers that impose disability upon me. To me, I am Deaf first and Disabled second.
Looking back to the early 1990s, when I became Britain’s first elected Deaf, BSL-using Borough Councillor, it was then I realised that there was no legal protection or support for Deaf councillors. For instance, when my council debated who should cover the cost of BSL interpreters for my constituent meetings and local events, I felt strongly motivated to push for national change. This led me to campaign in Parliament, drawing inspiration from key figures of that era, including Austin Reeves (Broadcasting Bill campaign), Rachel Hurst and Bert Massie (Disability Bills), and Doug Alker (British Sign Language Campaign).
3) You are known both as a campaigner and as a role model for disabled people – do you think of yourself as a role model? If not, why not?
I don’t like to see myself as a role model; I’m simply here for a reason. If I had been born hearing, things might have turned out differently - someone else would likely have had to lead the BSL Act Now! Campaign, fight for Deaf people to serve as court jurors, and challenge the Government in the High Court over issues like the Access to Work cap and the closure of the Access to Elected Office Fund.
We’re here, we take on leadership roles, and we prepare to pass them on so others can continue to drive change. This process must go on until our rights are fully recognised and we’re fully included in wider society. It’s the encouragement and belief others have in me that fuels my commitment to campaigning—not for personal glory, but out of dedication to the people and communities we care about.
4) What do you think are the biggest barriers facing disabled people and preventing them from reaching their full potential and fully participating in society?
Despite progress, barriers persist, and in many ways, we’ve actually regressed since 2010. Cuts in government support have undone much of the progress towards independent living for which we had fought. The Access to Elected Office Fund and Independent Living Fund have been axed, the Access to Work cap has been imposed, and Disabled Students’ Allowance has been severely reduced. And this is just a fraction of what’s been taken from us.
How are we supposed to reach our full potential or participate fully in society? We’re not asking for special treatment; we’re simply demanding the same opportunities as everyone else. We cannot and must not give up on the dreams of inclusion and equality. If we don’t see it ourselves, we’ll pass on the baton to those who come after us until society finally embraces us as equal citizens.
5) Can you give any examples of barriers that you have faced? Did you overcome them? If so, how?
As a Deaf person, I can say that the barriers we face today are immense. Gaining selection to stand for Parliament in a winnable or target seat is particularly difficult. I’ve tried multiple times over the past 15 years, and despite running stronger campaigns than other candidates, I was still placed last. It’s clear that attitudes pose a major barrier for Deaf and Disabled candidates, alongside daily struggles with communication and language access.
One of the most insidious forms of discrimination we face is in the education of Deaf children. Some professionals insist on focusing solely on listening and speech skills for Deaf children, disregarding British Sign Language (BSL) as if it hinders them. This is a harmful myth, devoid of any factual basis. Just as not every child in a classroom excels equally in maths, English, art, or sports, not every Deaf child will have a natural aptitude for listening and speaking.
Perhaps only 2 to 5 out of 30 children might develop such skills and focusing only on them while neglecting the others is morally wrong. Every Deaf child should have the opportunity to learn both BSL and English, gaining confidence and fluency in both languages. This will offer them richer social, emotional, and educational opportunities.
The key barrier we must eliminate is the mindset of those professionals who prioritise their own theories over the real needs of Deaf children. They should be replaced with people who genuinely understand and value the potential of each Deaf child—not just the few who might fit into a narrow view of “success.”
6) As a disabled person what is the biggest barrier either facing you or disabled people generally that you would like the new Government to take action on?
When considering what actions the new Government should take, the biggest barrier that needs addressing is the prevailing attitude towards Disabled people. A shift towards openness and positivity is essential for meaningful change.
Reflecting on the past few years and my experiences with Disabled people in the workplace and community, I urge the Government to adopt the principles of the 12 Pillars of Independent Living, implementing the UN Convention on the Rights of Disabled People through a well-funded, meaningful programme. This programme must be fully co-produced with Disabled leaders, representing our voices and lived experiences. Such a move could foster a more inclusive, positive society where everyone can participate fully.
7) Do you think that the British media and the British public have an open and positive attitude towards disability and disabled people? If not, why not?
I’m deeply concerned about the role of national media in shaping public perceptions of Disabled people. Too often, the media spreads negative or unhelpful opinions, which contributes to Disability hate crime. While they support anti-racism, they still allow “audism” and “disablism” to slip through unchecked. This double standard is unacceptable, and it’s time to stand up against these prejudices.
8) Have you heard of the ‘Social Model of Disability’ and do you agree with it?
I wholeheartedly support the social model of disability, which frames disability as a societal issue rather than an individual limitation. Unfortunately, some people misunderstand it as a negative or combative concept. We must clarify this by presenting the social model in a constructive, positive light. Society has a responsibility to prevent new barriers from forming and to use its resources to foster full inclusion, equity, and diversity for all.
9) At the moment the ‘Assisted Dying Bill’ is receiving a lot of coverage in the media. What is your opinion of the bill? Do you agree with it? Do you have any concerns? Is a private members bill the best way or the correct way to change the law on such an important issue?
Regarding the Assisted Dying Bill, I understand why my own family and friends facing terminal illness have wished to end their suffering on their own terms, with dignity and respect. If someone has a terminal diagnosis with a limited prognosis, I believe they should have the right to make this choice. However, I do not support extending this choice to Disabled people whose impairments are not life-limiting. Disabled individuals deserve sufficient funding and support to live fully and equally, not an option to end their lives. The Government and local authorities have a duty to support Disabled people as equal members of society.
10) Finally, thank you for taking the time to answer these questions. Is there anything else you are happy to share about your life experiences as a disabled person?
Lastly, I must say I am grateful to have been born Deaf. I’ve seen what Deaf and Disabled people have achieved and the impact we’ve had. If I’d been born hearing, perhaps I’d have led a quieter life, but instead, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to something greater.
We must celebrate all forms of disability and diversity, as they enrich society. Working together, we can create a world that is more harmonious and compassionate. The pursuit of perfection can erode social, economic, and behavioural values, but diversity and inclusion build a more vibrant society.
Comments