Scope

Every July, disabled people come together to celebrate identity, community and creativity. It's also a time to challenge the barriers that still hold people back. This year, we've taken a co-production approach to Disability Pride Month events in Leeds and Manchester. Disabled people haven't just been consulted. They've shaped the events themselves. For us, that's what meaningful inclusion looks like. Sharing power and valuing lived experience. And creating spaces that are built with disabled people, not just for them. Read more about how our co-producers are helping to shape Disability Pride Month at Scope. And why co-production matters ⬇️

Disabled people who can and want to work are being held back ❌ Not because we can’t do the jobs. But because work is failing us. Too often, rights to adjustments are ignored. Workplaces are inaccessible. And outdated attitudes mean we’re undervalued and overlooked. It doesn’t have to be this way. Making disability pay gap reporting mandatory is a vital step towards disability equality at work. We’re calling on the government to bring forward the Bill now. And to take action to remove these barriers. Image description: BARRIERS is repeated in large text. Below, text reads: 'Too many disabled people who want to work are being blocked by barriers that should not exist. Work without barriers'.

Last week, we were honoured to join Ordnance Survey's activity day as their charity of the year partner. And it was wonderful to see our partnership come to life in such an engaging way. These moments really matter. They're an opportunity to build stronger connections, share ideas, and celebrate progress. Partnerships like this aren't just about fundraising. They're about creating change together. Thank you to everyone at Ordnance Survey for making us feel so welcome. And for your continued dedication to our shared goal of creating an equal future with disabled people 💜 Image description: A photo of a Scope and Ordnance Survey branded stall in front of large windows. A banner reads: 'Charity of the year partnership 2026 to 2028'. There are small posters and flyers on the table.

For many people, LGBTQ+ Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate themselves and their communities. But if they are disabled, many of these opportunities can be inaccessible. Making a Pride event accessible means considering more than just physical barriers. It’s understanding how people need to interact, with each other and the space. Whether there are ways for people who are blind or deaf to get involved. How people can access a quiet place to relax, or take medication, or change a stoma bag. Where mobility aids can be stored during the event. Disabled people should feel included in Pride. We’re wishing a happy Pride Month to all who celebrate! Image description: Background image shows a Progress LGBTQ+ Pride flag flying. Text reads: "Pride must be accessible."

Alan Milburn’s interim review into young people and work has been released. It details how young disabled people in the UK have been failed on an unforgivable scale. Nearly half of young disabled people are not in education, employment or training. not because they lack talent or ambition. But because they face deep structural barriers, poor support and negative attitudes. Young disabled people shouldn’t be punished for an economic, healthcare and education system that has let them down. Cuts to benefits would only push more disabled people into poverty, not jobs. So, what next? Milburn will deliver a final policy report in the autumn with recommendations for change. These must be bold recommendations with input from young disabled people. The government must back them with the right support to fulfil their ambitions.

Internalised ableism can cause people to avoid or delay getting the support they need and are entitled to. Many believe they’d be a burden for needing accommodations. As a result, they will often minimise their struggles as a result. This can be especially true if a condition fluctuates. Internalised ableism can manifest as feelings of embarrassment or unworthiness. Because of this, some people will try to hide or mask their conditions to avoid judgement. Unlearning internalised ableism can be a long and tricky process. It’s important for disabled people to be patient and have compassion for themselves. Accepting accommodations, giving yourself compassion, and seeing support as a tool can be life changing. 📷 Image description: Dark purple text on a pink background reads: "Maybe I just need to try harder."

📅 Today marks Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD). The idea behind the day is to get people talking and learning about the importance and impact of digital accessibility. And with over 14 million disabled people in the UK, that’s a big impact. When something isn’t accessible, disabled people are left out. Digital inaccessibility is built into technology, online shopping, and even social media. It might mean not being able to take part in an online community. Or, it could even mean losing independence with things like online banking. So, who is responsible for digital accessibility? Well… everyone. Businesses, the government, us, and you 🤝 And one of the ways that you can start taking responsibility for digital accessibility is right here on LinkedIn. To get started with more accessible content, here are three things to ask yourself next time you post: Did I remember to add alt-text to my image so that a screen reader user will know what it is? Did I include clear subtitles for the speaking in my video? Have I used plain English and limited emojis to make my writing easy to understand? You don’t have to know everything and it’s okay to still be learning. But the important thing is making the effort to learn and do better. And you’ll be helping to create a more inclusive world at the same time. Image description: A computer window. The search bar reads, 'GAAD 2026'. Window text reads, 'Accessibility is everyone's responsibility.' There is a photo of two men laughing at their laptop.

Are you looking for a job, thinking about work, or just want to explore your options? Scope, Leeds Mind and Leeds City Council are partnering for an inclusive employment fair. Join us at the Scope Community Hub in Leeds for a friendly and supportive space. You'll be able to meet employers, get advice, and build your confidence. This is more than just a job fair. It’s a chance to build confidence in a supportive environment. An opportunity to speak directly with employers who value inclusion. And an invitation to receive practical advice on moving forward at your own pace.

Our Scope Awards 2026 winners! We’re so proud to celebrate these passionate and hard-working disability equality champions 💜 A huge thank you to everyone who joined us yesterday. We look forward to seeing all the amazing things you will all achieve in the next year 🙌 Image descriptions: all images show pictures of the winners of each Scope Award, with their name and category written in white text. The pictures have a purple sparkly background. Full descriptions are in the comments.

AI is transforming how we work 💻 But new research suggests many disabled people aren’t confident it will improve access to jobs. And some aren’t sure it will help at all. That’s why disabled people need to be involved at every stage. From design to rollout.