Is the View and Acceptance of Disability Finally Changing

The other week I did a talk at a prep school and it has really made me question is the view and acceptance of disability finally changing?

In the Past

For so long, disabled people have been seen as less than. If you go back decades, disabled people were essentially locked away, and not seen by society, or sometimes even looked at like they were demonised. Thankfully this horrific treatment doesn’t happen today. Most disabled people are able to live in their own houses or out in the community, independently, or with support.

Note I say most, because I know a friend of mine is not being allowed this, despite having the mental capacity to do so. Furthermore, the battles for accessible houses is another issue.

Change shouldn’t take the time it has, but if you do look back decades, you can see positive change.

A Recent Experience

Still today, there are a lot of stereotypes and assumptions. The other day, I went swimming with my Dad and PA (three adults). I said: ‘Hello, please can I go swimming?’. To which the receptionist replied: ‘Is that for the teaching pool?’ (also known as baby pool).

When would you ask three adults if they were going in the baby pool? You wouldn’t. But, she assumed because I used a powerchair I couldn’t swim! Actually, I am normally one of the best swimmers in the pool, and I have even swam in a lake!

My Experience Talking at School

Nevertheless, when I spoke at the school, I was pleasantly overwhelmed. I know children are very accepting, but this was more than that. There was no stigma. Children were happy to share they or a family member had a disability, and what it was. There was no shame. It was incredible.

There should not be any shame. I always say disabled people are some of the most determined people I know, and in many cases have achieved more than their non-disabled counterparts.

This made me reflect that maybe there are high hopes for the future. For the future generation, when these children grow up. That they will live in a world where attitudes, stigmas and stereotypes are not barriers. Amongst which, disabled people can achieve their potential without negative attitudes. We can live in hope that the view and acceptance of disability is changing.

Hannah x

You may be interested in reading: 7 Days in My Life (As a Wheelchair User)