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disability activism and the struggle for change

disability, policy and politics in the UK

University of Leeds, UK, c.barnes{at}leeds.ac.uk

This article provides a critical evaluation of recent developments in government policy for disabled people in Britain. A brief outline of the re-definition of disability as social oppression by disabled activists and their organizations is provided. This is followed by a brief outline of its impact on recent government policy which aims to improve the life chances of people with designated `impairments and long term health conditions'. It is argued that although much has been achieved over recent years there is still a long way to go if the language of inclusion is to become more than empty rhetoric. Further, that while disability activism has had an important influence on disability policy in the UK, this very success threatens to undermine its continuity and future.

Key Words: K E Y W O R D S activism • disability • independent living • policy • politics

Education, Citizenship and Social Justice, Vol. 2, No. 3, 203-221 (2007)
DOI: 10.1177/1746197907081259


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