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Disability language and etiquette guide
This guide is the result of extensive consultation and joint working with disabled people, disability organisations and the voluntary sector in Barking and Dagenham.
It is fundamental to disabled people's lives that disability is recognised as an equality issue.
This guide will make clear the accepted language and etiquette that has been defined by disabled people.
To challenge discrimination, oppression, and stereotypes, the disability movement both nationally and internationally, has actively promoted its own definitions of disability. These definitions have been borne out of the Social Model of Disability.
Most of the information will be common sense and common courtesy. It is important to understand that there are some widely used words and phrases that give offence because they reinforce prejudice and perpetuate discriminatory attitudes and practices among the general public.
Please take some time to think about the language and etiquette contained in this guide.
We want to break down barriers, increase opportunities for learning and work towards inclusion and unity within Barking and Dagenham.
- The models of disability
- Language
- Inappropriate and appropriate language guide
- Etiquette and common courtesies
- People with mobility impairments
- People with visual impairments
- People with speech impairments
- People who are hearing impaired
- People with Autistic Spectrum disorders - with or without associated learning difficulties
- Supporters of this guide
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Remember!
The most difficult barrier faced by disabled people can be other people's attitudes.
Don't let yourself be a barrier to Disability Equality.
With grateful thanks to the Disability and Independent Living Movement.
